One in 10 adults reported that their relatives have made poor financial decisions in the past two years, resulting in some form of financial loss, according to a report from AKG, sponsored by Standard Life.
Among this number, 37% attributed it to a lack of knowledge or understanding, while 31% said their relative had lacked access to proper advice or guidance.
Almost half of participants (49%) were apprehensive about their own financial decision-making capabilities, with 14% specifically concerned about this as they approach retirement.
Additional causes for concern about financial decision-making in older age included illness (30%), deteriorating physical health (28%) and bereavement (19%).
Observations among financial advisers were similar, as they believed that as many as 35% of their clients could be classed as vulnerable.
Chris Hudson, retail intermediary managing director at Standard Life, part of Phoenix Group, said: “People are naturally always concerned for the wellbeing of their vulnerable relatives, particularly when it comes to financial decision-making which can be confusing and easy to get wrong at any stage of your life.
“The ongoing cost-of-living crisis has amplified the UK’s problem with low financial awareness and understanding, with people often more likely to make risky decisions when they are struggling.
“For example, there can be a strong temptation to use long-term savings to cover day-to-day costs.
“As a result, many people, particularly the more vulnerable, are at risk of making poor financial decisions and could become easy targets for scammers.
“We urge people not to struggle alone – speaking to a financial adviser or accessing financial guidance and education can be invaluable throughout life.”
He continued: “The fact that financial advisers consider over a third of those who do seek advice to be vulnerable is telling – it’s scary to think how many people who are not advised could fall into this category.
“A collective response from providers, regulators, Government, and advisers is needed to help people access advice and empower and educate clients.
“Crucially, the industry as a whole needs to invest in vulnerability programmes and make sure it’s providing the flexibility needed to treat vulnerable people well.”
Matt Ward, communications director at AKG, added: “We know from this body of research and many others that a wide range of consumers need more help when it comes to understanding and making financial decisions.
“Access to affordable financial advice remains challenging for many consumers and so outside of the mainstream advice market the financial services industry needs to continue to widen the availability and access to useful information, guidance and advice.”
