Elder Risk Detector

What is an Elder Risk Detector?

The Legal Risk Detector, developed by Pro Bono Net,  is a web-based legal health “check-up” tool that allows adult consumers to screen themselves for risks of the following legal problems: housing, debt, health care, financial exploitation, and elder abuse. The Legal Risk Detector is currently intended for adults age 60+ and adults 18-59 with a disability, but the tool will be tailored for use by professionals in the future.

Why Should You Consider Using the Elder Risk Detector?

More than 25 million Americans over age 60 are considered economically insecure, and the Covid-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the well-being of older adults and adults with disabilities.

Low-income older adults face legal risks that can profoundly impact their well-being, including maintaining safe and affordable housing, overcoming debt or financial scams, and navigating healthcare or other public benefits. The Legal Risk Detector is, therefore, designed to comprehensively reach and serve a population that is vulnerable to various forms of elder abuse, but difficult to serve through traditional legal services.

The Legal Risk Detector is user-friendly and enables adult consumers to screen themselves for common legal issues. Once the assessment is completed, a report is generated that categorizes the adult’s risk as “low,” “medium,” or “high.” With informed consent, the report is then sent to Legal Aid Chicago for follow-up and appropriate action.

Access the Tool

The Elder Risk Detector tool is coming soon. It is intended for adults aged 60 and older or adults with disabilities aged 18-59 living in Suburban Cook County.

If this doesn’t apply to you, you can find legal information at https://www.legalaidchicago.org/