Elder Care: Unfortunately, as seniors age and technology grows more advanced, more scams are created to target seniors.
Elder care, caregivers, and family members can take the time to learn about each scam and help seniors identify what could be a threat to their money or identity.
Seniors are often targeted because they are polite, too trusting, or don’t know any better. That is why it can be so essential to help your loved one understand what might be a scam. It will also be important to tell them never to give their personal information away over the phone. If a caregiver can intervene before anything happens, it will be for the best.
This short guide will give family members and elder care associates the rundown on the latest scams and learn what steps to take if the fraud has already happened. Financial scams can leave older adults in bad positions, and it can be hard to regain any losses as a senior.
3 Scams to Watch Out For
Firstly there are more than five scams, but these are just some of the biggest to watch out for with a senior. If an elder care assistant can intervene, it will help save much stress. Some of these scams intend to scare a senior.
Government Scams
Lately, there have been tons of government scans that have people act like they are from the IRS, Internal Revenue Services, or even medicare. Some will threaten the senior, saying they have unpaid taxes and need to make a payment right away. This scam will most likely scare seniors. They may say they will cut off medicare benefits unless they make a payment or give them the personal information verifying identity and account.
Technical Support Scam
Some seniors will have a laptop or a computer they use to stay connected with others. A caregiver needs to warn them that there are now scams that offer technical support. On any given screen, a message may appear saying that the computer or device is compromised. Then it will direct them to a page to share personal information to receive help. In 2018 the FTC or the Federal Trade Commission reported that seniors who fell for this scam lost around $500.
Charity Scams
Everyone hates to admit it, but charity scams are real, and seniors can fall victim to them. Many people will play the part of collecting money for a good cause and expect a payment to be made upfront. Many seniors fall victim to this type of scam because it seems heartwarming and like they could make a real difference. They may require a money transfer immediately, and this is a huge red flag.
Elder Care: Steps to Take When a Senior Has Been Scammed
Firstly, the elder care assistant needs to talk openly with the seniors and ensure they do not feel embarrassed. Learn The information they gave away and start closing or changing those accounts. The best news is that there are now adult protective care services that can help protect the senior. A caregiver can help them go through and turn off credit cards, change bank account numbers, and contact other support agencies to help get the scam shut down.