Try these tips to help protect seniors from scams.
We’re all too familiar with those annoying robocalls that always seem to interrupt us right at dinnertime. They are clearly scammers, and while it may seem simple enough to avoid them by just hanging up or ignoring the calls, it actually can be easy to be taken advantage of – especially for older adults. In fact, as much as $36 billion is being scammed from seniors each year, and most of the time, this money is unable to be recovered, wiping out a lifetime of savings and leaving seniors in financial ruin.
To protect seniors from scams, it’s important to be aware of the following common types of fraud:
When older adults are struggling with a chronic health concern, finding relief through a cure or better treatment option is crucial. Scammers realize this and are touting “miracle” treatments that can actually cause more harm than help, both to an older adult’s health and bank account. These tips can help:
Planning for the funeral of someone you love is an emotional experience, a vulnerability scammers take advantage of. Understand the following facts about planning a funeral to avoid fraud:
Seniors are often the target of telemarketers, who know they may be lonely and more willing to engage in a conversation with them. Be wary of:
Visiting Care Giving Services, the leading Chesterfield senior advocate and provider of trusted home care services, is here to help protect seniors from scams. We can provide the companionship [D4] and support that alleviate loneliness and boredom – two of the key factors senior scammers are targeting. Call us any time at (636) 493-9058 in Saint Charles, MO or at (618) 366-9058 in Fairview Heights, IL to learn more about how we can help keep the seniors you love safe. Visit our Service Area page for a full listing of the communities we serve.