Be Aware of These 5 Senior Scams!

Have you or a loved one fallen victim to a scam in the past?

Is your elderly parent gullible enough to believe anything they hear?

Do you have a hard time distinguishing between what is a real offer and what is a scam?

Seniors are often the target of scams. Cognitive problems can impair seniors’ judgment as they get older making them vulnerable to cons. Seniors may face scammers on a daily basis. Navigating scams can be a difficult challenge for the elder generation, since the internet is still new to them. It’s important to be aware of the scams that are out there and how to protect yourself in case you come across one!

According to A Place for Mom, some common tactics scammers use to trick seniors include:

1. The Grandparents Scam-Someone calling claiming to be your grandchild in need of money.

Your Way Out: Don’t fully commit to wiring them funds. Check the story by asking other family members first if this grandchild is in trouble and in need of financial assistance.

2. Investment schemes- Scammers like to offer ways to safeguard your money after retirement, but really they’re after your cold hard cash!

Your Way Out: Remember that if the offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be suspicious of anyone who promises massive returns on an investment and be sure to only deal with reputable and credible institutions.

3. Email Scams- Many scams spread via email. Be sure to never open emails from a sender you don’t recognize.
 
Your Way Out: Never disclose private information online except to a trusted organization. If you have questions about whether an email you received is legitimate, call that organization directly.

4. Medicare ID Card Theft Scams- If a caller is claiming to be from a government agency to tell you your card needs to be replaced this is merely a trick to get your personal information.

Your Way Out: Never give personal information like your social security number or banking information over the phone, and be suspicious of calls from people who claim to represent official agencies and then request personal information.

5. Repair Fraud- Seniors fall victim to unnecessary repairs all of the time. If you notice that they’re being charged multiple times for something, then they could be developing dementia. 

Your Way Out: If you find yourself making poor purchasing decisions, talk to a younger family member about getting help, and possibly a financial power of attorney.

Elderly Care in Ann Arbor: Make Hillside Terrace Your Home Away From Home!

The transition from living at home independently to assisted living can be one of the most difficult decisions families and their loved ones have to make. When a family member can’t take care of themselves, it can put a heavy burden on those they love. Many people aren’t up to the task of the daily care their loved one may require.

We’re confident in our ability to provide the best quality of elderly care, the security, and the family atmosphere that you’re seeking! We warmly invite you to see the difference we can make when your family shares life with our family. Schedule a tour of Hillside Terrace today! (734) 761-4451