Avoiding Senior Scams
Golden Lodge Assisted Living and Memory Care
Feb 09, 2022
Colorado - Boulder County
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Recognize and discuss some of the most common scams
People prey on seniors because they are likely to have savings or pensions and also because they may be unsophisticated in their use of technology. They may be lonely, trusting, or simply used to a culture of helping people in need a kindness that is often exploited. Read on for six of the most common scams and how to avoid them:
PHONE SCAMS
These are the most common scams used against the elderly, mainly because seniors are comfortable using the phone. In fact, seniors also make twice as many purchases on the phone as the general population. Solicitors may claim to be collecting money after a natural disaster or may claim to be a grandchild in jail or in hospital and in need of money.
What to do: Remind your loved one never to give credit card numbers or information over the phone. If they want to make a donation, help them seek out a legitimate charity and contact it themselves. Practice having them say, That sounds interesting, but I will look into it myself. Goodbye. Enroll your relatives number on the Do Not Call Registry. Make sure that your relative has caller ID and voicemail. This way, they can screen their calls, weed out unfamiliar numbers, but not miss any legitimate messages.
INTERNET SCAMS
These are easy to fall for, no matter what your age. Scammers may send threatening emails saying that your relatives computer has been hacked or making frightening demands from the IRS. They may offer counterfeit prescription drugs or send begging letters designed to tug at generous older adults heartstrings. They may phish, spoof, or try to extort money, clicks, and information a thousand different ways.
What to do:Obviously, you dont want to create a crippling distrust in your loved ones that makes them avoid the computer completely, but you can try to create enough suspicion in their online behavior that they doubt and verify everything. The magic adage here isif in doubt, dont click! Explain that the IRS never sends emails asking for information, that individuals desperate for money wouldnt logically choose them to specifically send a begging email to, that nobody legitimate is going to ask to take over their computer to fix a nonexistent virus, and that misspelled words, grammatical errors, and close-but-not-quite URLs are all warning signs.
FUNERAL/CEMETERY SCAMS
One scam is for a stranger to approach a grieving widow or widower and claim that the recently departed owed money. Another way seniors can lose money is to be upsold expensive and unnecessary caskets or burial plots just as they are reeling from a tragedy and not thinking clearly.
What to do: Insist on proof of any claims made. Creditors do NOT attend funerals to demand money. Although planning of this nature can be difficult, it is necessary: plan ahead. With a firm plan in place, logic is more likely to win out over raw emotion.
INVESTMENT SCHEMES
Seniors often have retirement accounts or savings, which makes them a prime target for disreputable financial advisors, get-rich-quick schemes, or Ponzi schemes. Take the time to explain this to your loved one.
What to do:Make sure that your loved one does not respond to unsolicited offers. Help them find a reputable financial advisor; this involves research, checking credentials, and making sure that the advisor is a fiduciary. As far as get-rich-quick schemes go, remind your relatives what they told you all those years ago: if it seems too good to be true, it most definitely is!
MEDICARE SCAMS
Scam artists often pose as Medicare representatives and ask for information that they will then use to file fraudulent claims on behalf of your relative.
What to do:If your loved one has a Medicare question or problem, they should contact them directly. Legitimate Medicare representatives will not ask for the information they already have.
REAL ESTATE SCAMS
It may be tempting for your loved ones to believe the claims of an entity touting the advantages of a reverse mortgage or the superiority of quickly selling their house for cash. This is especially true of those who are planning to go into senior care housing and are looking for financial solutions.
What to do: This comes down to research again, not to mention the old If it sounds too good to be true warning. Golden Lodge is experienced with unsavory scams targeting seniors and has researched funding sources for senior care and housing. You and your loved ones are not alone as you navigate your way through the sea of scams.
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Dignity Care is a homegrown business in Boulder.In the 1990s, Mary Kirk, a registered dietitian, began caregiving for family and relatives. Her husband, Ged, offered a companion travel service for the elderly and disabled. Together they established Dignity Care, LLC in 1997 as a home care business with just two caregivers and a home office.As demand for home care service increased, Mary recruited additional caregivers, but always with an emphasis on the compassionate, respectful, personalized care that was Dignity Cares trademark. Mary created her own approach to senior home care, unique in this area.With this dedication and passion to provide the best caregivers in the Boulder County region, Dignity Care has continued to grow and in 2009 became licensed as a Class A home care provider. We specialize in using Certified Nursing Assistants on our teams so we can bring you the skill and experience you deserve, if you have any questions, please call us at 303-444-4040.
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Golden Lodge Assisted Living and Memory Care
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Our culinary team prepares nutritious, chef-crafted meals served in a restaurant-style dining room. Menus are designed to cater to the dietary needs and preferences of our residents, ensuring they receive balanced meals that support their health. Additionally, snacks are available throughout the day to accommodate varying appetites and routines.Family Involvement and SupportWe recognize the importance of family involvement in the care and well-being of our residents. Golden Lodge encourages family members to participate in care planning and to engage in community events. We offer educational resources and support groups to assist families in understanding dementia and coping with its challenges. Our goal is to create a partnership with families, providing them with peace of mind knowing their loved ones are in compassionate and capable hands.Amenities Designed for Comfort and EngagementGolden Lodge offers a range of amenities to enhance the living experience of our residents:Restaurant-Style Dining Room and Outdoor Dining Area: Residents enjoy meals in a communal setting that promotes social interaction, with the option to dine outdoors and take in the beautiful surroundings.Library: A quiet space filled with a variety of books and reading materials to cater to diverse interests.Beauty Salon/Barbershop: On-site services to help residents look and feel their best without the need to leave the community.Gaming and Entertainment Room: A space dedicated to games and entertainment, encouraging socialization and cognitive engagement.Movie Theater: Regular screenings of classic and contemporary films provide entertainment and a sense of nostalgia.Exercise and Therapy Spaces: Equipped with fitness equipment and staffed by fitness professionals, these areas support physical health and mobility.Activity Rooms: Spaces designated for classes, seminars, and various group activities that promote lifelong learning and engagement.Courtyards and Walking Paths: Beautifully landscaped outdoor areas with walking paths, a greenhouse, and gardens offer residents the opportunity to enjoy nature safely.Scenic Location with Mountain ViewsNestled in Golden, Colorado, our community boasts stunning views of the foothills, providing a serene backdrop for our residents. 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Assisted Living 1111 Newstar Way, Golden, Colorado, 80403Nestled at the base of the picturesque foothills, Golden Lodge Assisted Living and Memory Care offers an exceptional senior living experience that prioritizes comfort, security, and personalized care. Our assisted living community is designed to provide seniors with the perfect balance of independence and support, allowing them to enjoy a fulfilling and active lifestyle while receiving the assistance they need.Exceptional Assisted Living ServicesAt Golden Lodge, we understand that every individual has unique needs and preferences. Our assisted living facility offers customized care plans tailored to support residents with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, medication management, and mobility assistance. Our compassionate and professional caregivers are available 24/7, ensuring that each resident receives the right level of support while maintaining their dignity and independence.A Warm and Inviting CommunityGolden Lodge is more than just a place to liveits a place to call home. Our welcoming community fosters social engagement, personal growth, and overall well-being. Residents can enjoy spacious private apartments, beautifully designed common areas, and a wide range of amenities that create a comfortable and enriching environment.Comprehensive Wellness ProgramsWe believe in a holistic approach to senior care. Our wellness programs promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being, helping residents maintain an active and healthy lifestyle. Some of our programs include:Fitness classes designed for seniors to improve strength, balance, and flexibilitySocial and recreational activities to encourage meaningful connections and engagementCognitive and memory-enhancing activities for mental stimulationSpiritual and emotional support through meditation, faith-based services, and counselingGourmet Dining & NutritionAt Golden Lodge, we know that nutrition plays a vital role in overall health. Our culinary team prepares delicious, nutritionally balanced meals using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Residents enjoy a variety of menu options tailored to their dietary needs and preferences, all served in a beautiful dining setting that encourages social interaction and enjoyment.Safety, Security, and Peace of MindSafety is a top priority at Golden Lodge. Our community is equipped with state-of-the-art security systems, emergency response protocols, and on-site medical support to ensure residents and their families have peace of mind. With 24-hour staff availability, assistance is always just a call away. Our well-trained caregivers and healthcare professionals provide medication reminders, routine health monitoring, and coordination with medical providers to support residents well-being.Engaging Lifestyle & Social ActivitiesA vibrant and active lifestyle is a key part of our assisted living philosophy. Golden Lodge offers a variety of daily activities and events that cater to residents interests and hobbies. Our activities calendar includes:Art and music therapyEducational lectures and book clubsCommunity outings and scenic drivesGardening and outdoor activitiesGame nights, movie screenings, and social eventsPet-Friendly EnvironmentWe understand the joy that pets bring into our lives, which is why Golden Lodge is a pet-friendly assisted living community. Residents can enjoy the companionship of their furry friends, contributing to their emotional well-being and happiness.Family Involvement & SupportAt Golden Lodge, we believe in fostering strong connections between residents and their families. We encourage family involvement through regular events, celebrations, and open communication with our caregiving team. Our goal is to create a supportive environment where families feel informed and confident about their loved ones care.Golden Lodge Assisted Living and Memory Care is committed to providing exceptional senior care with a focus on comfort, dignity, and quality of life. Our team of dedicated professionals works tirelessly to ensure that each resident receives the best possible care while enjoying a fulfilling and independent lifestyle. When you choose Golden Lodge, you are choosing:A beautiful and peaceful setting at the base of the foothillsPersonalized care plans tailored to individual needsA warm and inviting community that feels like homeComprehensive wellness programs for a healthier lifestyleEngaging activities and social opportunities for personal enrichmentA secure and supportive environment with 24-hour assistanceWe invite you to experience the Golden Lodge difference and discover why so many seniors and their families trust us for quality assisted living services. Schedule a tour today and see firsthand how our compassionate team and vibrant community can enhance your loved ones life.Contact us today to learn more about Golden Lodge Assisted Living and Memory Care!