Standing Up For Stella

In the summer of 2021, her life was abruptly torn apart by Alzheimer’s. This terrible disease devoured life as she knew it. By the summer of 2023, as she began settling into a new way of life, Stella Buffer was again confronted with an unexpected loss.

This time, she was robbed of her life savings, leaving her unable to pay for her care.

What’s more shocking than the theft is that it was orchestrated by Stella’s power of attorney, who also happens to be a family member.

Today, Stella, who celebrated her 81st birthday in May, can no longer afford room and board at Apple Grove Alzheimers and Dementia Senior Residence in Memphis, Tenn, where she has continued to live and thrive while normalizing life with Alzheimer's.

(Video of Stella’s birthday soiree at the residence.)

My name is Mafara Hobson, and Stella is my aunt. I have been recently appointed her conservator. I have hired an attorney and am working closely with the Shelby County Court in Memphis to track and recover her money.

(Stella celebrates with her great nephew.)

( Stella and her big sister, aka, my mama, getting sassy with me.)

Please help me raise funds for legal fees and assist Stella in maintaining her dignity and the quality of life she deserves and worked so hard to invest in.

(Stella inspects the decorative touches I added to her room. Not sure she approves.)

According to National Institute on Aging, most victims of elder abuse, like Stella, are single females with a disability, such as memory problems or dementia. AARP states that each year more than 369,000 incidents of financial abuse targeting older adults are reported to authorities in the U.S., causing an estimated $4.8 billion in losses. Ninety percent of abusers are family members or trusted caregivers and individuals.

Before her diagnosis, Stella led an everyday life of a retired senior. She enjoyed decorating her home, which she owned. She loved traveling and was active in her church, working part-time to care for children at St. Luke Christian Academy.

Even though Stella’s memory and executive function are severely diminished, she continues to exude the essence of her true self through her love of music, getting her hair washed and styled, fancy church hats, and delicious snacks and treats. I look forward to Stella living freely in her residence and again enjoying life’s little wonderments, such as Nilla Wafers, her absolute favorite.

(After a busy day with staff and residents, Stella takes time for a bit of self-care.)

While I could not stop the impending perils of Stella's health condition, I am determined to bring her abuser to justice and reclaim her life by making her financially whole however I can. Please join me in making this a reality for Stella.

In addition to supporting Stella, I encourage you to learn more about elder abuse. Below are some additional resources and information.

TAKE ACTION:

Department of Justice

NAPSA

OVC

TN Commission on Aging

Washington State OAG

Let’s do what we can to help create a safer and better world for Stella and our seniors.