Nichelle Nichols, best known for her role as Lt. Uhura on the original Star Trek television series, finds herself in the midst of litigation at the age of 87. She is the alleged victim of elder abuse at the hands of her personal manager. The complaint tells a painful story of a vulnerable adult, surviving a stroke, dealing with dementia and short-term memory loss. She falls victim to social isolation, loss of financial and medical control, and even removal from a rehabilitation facility against medical advice.
Elder abuse thrives in the midst of secrecy and isolation. As a society, we must remain vigilant and keep our elders safe.
Report elder abuse in Oregon to the hotline at 1.855.503.7233.
Victoria Blachly is a partner and chair of SYK’s Fiduciary Practice Group.
