How to Identify and Prevent Edler Financial Abuse

A phone call sounds exactly like your grandson. He is frightened, says he has been arrested, and needs money immediately.A text appears to come from your bank.An online investment group shows months of impressive profits.A computer warning tells you to call "tech support" before your accounts are compromised.Every one of these situations can feel legitimate, especially when a criminal already knows your name, relatives, bank, or other personal information.That is why senior fraud prevention has become more urgent. According to the FBI's 2025 Internet Crime Complaint Center report, adults age 60 and older filed 201,266 complaints and reported $7.748 billion in losses. Complaints increased 37% from 2024, while reported losses jumped 59%. The average reported loss among complainants 60+ was approximately $38,500, and 12,444 complainants reported losing more than $100,000.  Why Older Adults Stand Out in the Fraud DataThe FBI's numbers are striking when compared with other age groups. Age Group 2025 IC3 Complaints Reported Losses 60+ 201,266 $7.75 billion 50 to 59 124,820 $3.68 billion 40 to 49 167,066 $2.96 billion 30 to 39 153,293 $1.74 billion 20 to 29 112,069 $563 million  Adults 60+ reported both the highest complaint count and the largest dollar loss among the age categories shown in the FBI's 2025 report. But that should not be interpreted as meaning older adults are simply more gullible.The FBI notes that criminals may target older people because they believe potential victims have accumulated savings, own valuable assets, spend more time alone, or are more willing to engage with unsolicited communications. Modern scams are also increasingly sophisticated.Investment Scams Took the Most MoneyAmong adults 60+, investment fraud produced approximately $3.52 billion in reported losses in 2025, making it the costliest individual crime category for this age group. These scams may begin through: Social media Dating apps Text messages Investment groups Online advertisements Someone claiming to be an investment expert Cryptocurrency frequently appears in these schemes. Complaints from people 60+ that involved cryptocurrency totaled more than $4.3 billion in reported losses, although cryptocurrency is a descriptor that can overlap with several different fraud categories. A convincing website may even show an account balance growing steadily.The problem becomes obvious only when the victim tries to withdraw the supposed profits. The criminal may suddenly demand taxes, fees, or another deposit before disappearing with the money. The FBI describes this pattern as common in cryptocurrency investment fraud. Tech Support Scams Remain ExpensiveA message appears on the computer:WARNING: Your bank information has been compromised. Call immediately.The phone number connects to someone who sounds professional and helpful.That is exactly the setup criminals want.Adults 60+ reported more than 21,000 tech and customer support complaints in 2025, with losses exceeding $1 billion. The supposed technician may ask for remote access to the computer, direct the victim to move money, or claim that funds must be transferred to a "safe account."Legitimate security does not require blindly following financial instructions from someone who unexpectedly contacted you.Grandparent Scams Are Becoming Harder to RecognizeThe traditional grandparent scam relies on panic.A caller claims to be a child, grandchild, attorney, police officer, or hospital employee. There has supposedly been an accident, arrest, or other emergency.Then comes the pressure:Do not tell anyone. Send money now.The FBI advises people receiving this type of call to resist pressure, hang up, and independently contact the relative or another family member to verify what happened. Today, there is another complication.Artificial intelligence can imitate a person's voice using audio obtained online. The FTC warns that a caller may therefore sound remarkably similar to the relative they are impersonating. The safest response is still to hang up and contact the supposed family member using a phone number you already know. Create a Family Safe WordOne low-tech defense can be surprisingly useful.Choose a private family code word or phrase.Every close family member should know it, but it should not be something posted publicly or easily guessed from social media.If someone calls claiming to be your grandson and urgently needs money, ask:"What's our family safe word?"AARP recommends this strategy specifically as protection against increasingly convincing AI-assisted family emergency scams. The code word should be only one layer of protection, however.Even if the caller knows personal details, verify the emergency independently before sending money.Five Rules That Can Stop Many ScamsFamilies do not need sophisticated cybersecurity training to adopt useful defenses.1. Urgency Means Slow Down2. Verify Through a Different Channel3. Never Trust Caller ID Alone4. Be Suspicious of Unusual Payment Instructions5. Never Keep a Financial Emergency SecretIf Money Has Already Been Sent, Move FastEmbarrassment can cost valuable time.If you realize that money may have been sent to a scammer, contact your financial institution immediately and ask whether the transaction can be stopped or recalled. Then report the incident to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.The FBI emphasizes that time matters when attempting to freeze fraudulently transferred money. There is evidence that quick reporting can make a difference.In 2025, the FBI's Financial Fraud Kill Chain process was initiated in 642 incidents involving victims age 60+, representing about $65.4 million in reported losses. The process helped freeze approximately $32.9 million in those particular incidents. That does not mean half of all senior fraud losses are recovered. These were selected cases where the FBI's rapid financial-intervention process could be initiated.The lesson is simpler:Report suspected fraud as quickly as possible.Watch Out for the Second ScamLosing money once can make someone a target again.The FBI reports an increase in recovery scams, where criminals claim they can retrieve money previously lost to fraud. Adults 60+ reported 2,529 such complaints in 2025, involving roughly $540.5 million in losses, though the FBI notes those loss figures may include money lost in the original scams that prompted contact with the supposed recovery service. Someone claiming to be an attorney, government employee, investigator, or recovery company may say:"We found your stolen cryptocurrency.""We recovered your investment.""We just need a fee before returning the money."That may simply be another fraud attempt.Families Can Make Fraud Prevention RoutineFraud prevention works better when it becomes a normal family conversation instead of something discussed only after money disappears.Consider agreeing on a few family rules: Use a private safe word for emergencies. Never send large sums based on one phone call. Call another family member before responding to an emergency request. Verify banks and government agencies independently. Talk openly about new online relationships and investments. Never shame someone for almost falling for a scam. Scams are intentionally designed to manipulate fear, trust, love, hope, and urgency.The right response is not embarrassment.It is verification.Frequently Asked QuestionsHow much did older Americans lose to online fraud in 2025?People age 60 and older reported approximately $7.748 billion in losses through the FBI's IC3 in 2025, 59% more than in 2024. Which scam costs seniors the most money?Investment fraud was the largest individual loss category for people 60+, accounting for approximately $3.52 billion in reported losses in 2025. What is a family code word?It is a private word or phrase known only to trusted family members. If someone calls claiming to be a relative in an emergency, asking for the phrase can provide an additional way to challenge the caller's identity. Can scammers copy someone's voice?Yes. The FTC warns that criminals can use AI voice cloning to imitate a loved one's voice during family-emergency scams. Independently contacting the real person remains important. What should someone do immediately after sending money to a scammer?Contact the financial institution immediately, request a recall or other available intervention, preserve transaction details, and file an IC3 complaint as soon as possible. Seniors Blue Book helps connect families with senior-focused providers and resources in their communities.If your organization serves older adults, a free Seniors Blue Book listing can make it easier for potential clients to discover your services. Providers who want greater visibility can also explore upgraded listing and advertising opportunities designed to reach more seniors, families, and caregivers.Email us at [email protected] or call us at 800-201-9989.

Wondering if an aging parent needs help at home? Learn seven common signs that it may be time to consider in-home care and how the right support can help them maintain their independence.Watching a parent age can bring a lot of questions. Maybe youve noticed the house isnt as tidy as it once was, your parent seems less steady on their feet, or everyday tasks are becoming more difficult.The need for in-home care doesnt always begin with one major event. Often, its a series of small changes that gradually become more noticeable. Recognizing these signs early can help families put support in place before a crisis occurs.Here are seven signs it may be time to consider some extra help at home.1. Everyday Tasks Are Becoming More DifficultLaundry piling up, dishes being left undone, changes in personal hygiene, or difficulty keeping up with the home can indicate that everyday responsibilities are becoming harder.A little assistance with daily tasks may actually help a senior remain independent at home longer.2. You're Concerned About Falls or MobilityChanges in balance or strength are worth paying attention to. You may notice your parent holding onto furniture, struggling to get up from a chair, or becoming hesitant when using stairs or getting in and out of the shower.Having someone nearby to assist with mobility and everyday activities can provide an added layer of support and reassurance.3. Meals Are Being SkippedTake a look in the refrigerator during your next visit. Is there fresh food? Are groceries being used?Shopping and cooking can become more difficult with age, and some seniors simply lose interest in preparing meals for themselves. A caregiver can assist with grocery shopping, meal preparation, and companionship during meals.4. Your Parent Is Becoming More IsolatedA senior who once enjoyed visiting friends, attending church, shopping, or participating in activities may gradually begin spending more time alone.Companionship is an important part of in-home care. A caregiver can provide conversation and interaction while helping seniors continue enjoying activities, errands, and outings.5. Driving Is Becoming a ConcernNew dents on the car, difficulty driving at night, or increased anxiety behind the wheel may signal that it's time to reconsider driving.Giving up the keys doesn't have to mean giving up independence. Transportation assistance can help seniors continue attending appointments, running errands, and participating in activities they enjoy.6. Family Caregivers Are Becoming OverwhelmedSometimes the biggest sign isn't a change in your parentit's how much caregiving has begun affecting the rest of the family.What starts as an occasional grocery run can gradually turn into daily calls, appointments, meal preparation, personal care, and constant check-ins.Bringing in additional help doesn't mean stepping away. It can allow family members to spend more time simply being a spouse, son, daughter, or grandchild again.7. You're Constantly Worried When They're AloneDid Mom eat today? Did Dad remember his medication? What happens if she falls while I'm at work?If you're constantly checking in or rearranging your schedule because you're uncomfortable with your loved one being alone, it may be time to explore additional support.In-Home Care Doesn't Have to Mean Full-Time CareOne common misconception is that bringing in a caregiver means a senior suddenly needs around-the-clock assistance.Every situation is different. Some seniors may benefit from companionship or help around the house a few times a week, while others need more hands-on assistance. Care can also increase or decrease as needs change.At Hallmark Homecare, we connect families directly with experienced, vetted independent caregivers. Our referral model gives families flexibility to find care based on their individual needs, schedule, and preferences without long-term contracts or required minimum care hours.The right support isn't about taking away independence. It's about helping your loved one continue living safely and comfortably at home while giving the entire family greater peace of mind.If you're beginning to notice some of these signs, Hallmark Homecare is here to help families throughout Collin County explore their options and connect with experienced caregivers who fit their needs.

The Executive Who Looked Perfect on PaperWhy Emotional Intelligence May Be the Leadership Quality We Still Undervalue By Heidi B. Rosen Heidi B. Rosen is the Founder & President of CDX Health Services and Clinical Dynamix, Inc. where she has spent more than 27 years advising healthcare organizations on executive leadership, talent strategy, and organizational growth. Having worked with thousands of healthcare leaders, she is passionate about helping organizations identify leaders who strengthen culture, inspire teams, and improve the lives of the people they serve. Her perspective is shaped not only by decades in executive search, but also by her family's personal journey through senior living.A few months ago, after a leadership meeting, I was speaking with the Executive Director of a senior living community. She looked exhaustedbut not because of survey preparation, occupancy, or reimbursement challenges.Instead, she quietly said something I haven't forgotten."Heidi, I don't think staffing is our biggest challenge anymore."Like many people in healthcare, I assumed she was referring to recruiting nurses or retaining caregivers.She wasn't."We have talented people," she said. "What we're missing are leaders who know how to lead people."She wasn't questioning anyone's clinical expertise or operational knowledge. She was talking about communication, self-awareness, trust, and the ability to coach rather than criticizequalities that increasingly define successful leadership.After nearly 30 years interviewing healthcare executives across the country, I've observed the same pattern more than once: some leaders are hired on the strength of an exceptional rsum, strong references, and rounds of interviews with senior recruiters and board membersyet once in the role, they struggle to build trust, retain talent, and preserve the culture they inherited. Other candidates, who present almost identically on paper, do the opposite. They transform culture, or build meaningfully on a culture that was already working.The difference often isn't experience.It's emotional intelligence.Daniel Goleman famously argued that emotional intelligence becomes increasingly important as professionals move into executive roles, because success depends less on individual expertise and more on the ability to influence others.1Today's executive leaders are expected to balance staffing shortages, financial pressures, regulatory demands, resident expectations, and employee burnoutall while keeping teams engaged. Financial and operational expertise remain essential, but they're no longer enough.Research consistently supports this. Gallup has found that managers account for roughly 70% of the variance in employee engagement, making leadership one of the strongest drivers of organizational performance.2 A 2024 systematic review in the Journal of Healthcare Leadership likewise found that emotionally intelligent healthcare leaders improve teamwork, employee engagement, resilience, organizational culture, and job satisfaction while reducing employee exhaustion.3I've seen this firsthand.I think of one candidate in particular: decades of experience, strong survey history, glowing references, impressive financial results. We placed him with full confidencenot only because he looked right on paper, but because he held up through a multi-stage interview process most search firms would consider rigorous.Everyone felt confident.Six months later, communication had deteriorated. Department heads were disengaging. Turnover was quietly rising.What happened?We had accurately evaluated his technical ability. What our process hadn't accounted for was emotional intelligence.Healthcare proves that every day.The strongest leaders remain calm under pressure. They build accountability without creating fear. They address conflict early, communicate transparently, and create environments where employees feel heard.Those qualities rarely appear on a rsum.Yet they're often what determine whether talented employees stayor leave.This creates an important challenge for healthcare organizations.Traditional executive hiring focuses heavily on experience, occupancy improvements, financial performance, survey history, and references. Those factors matter, but they don't always predict how someone will lead people.Increasingly, organizations are evaluating emotional maturity, communication style, adaptability, and cultural fit alongside technical qualifications.Research published in The Leadership Quarterly, the Journal of Organizational Behavior, and the Journal of Applied Psychology continues to demonstrate that emotionally intelligent leaders improve collaboration, team effectiveness, and organizational performance.46Culture doesn't happen by accident.It reflects leadership behaviors repeated consistently over time.Every difficult conversation either builds trust or weakens it.Every promotion reinforces what the organization truly values.Every leader shapes the experience employees have every single day.That's why executive search should never be about simply matching experience to a job description.The best search partners spend years building relationships across the industry, understanding reputations that never appear on LinkedIn, and assessing how leaders communicate, motivate teams, and fit within an organization's culture.At CDX Health Services, we believe placing an executive is only part of the responsibility.The greater responsibility is helping organizations identify leaders who strengthen culture, improve retention, inspire confidence, and build long-term organizational success.Technical expertise opens the door.Leadership determines what happens after the door opens.I think back to that placement often. When it didn't deliver the outcome we and our client hoped for, we didn't treat it as a footnotewe treated it as data. In the years since, we've built emotional intelligence evaluation into every senior-level search we conduct. We continue to refine our proprietary EQ assessment tools with every conversation we have with clients and candidates, and we track outcomes well past the first anniversary to confirmor challengeour own conclusions.As healthcare continues to evolve, organizations that intentionally prioritize emotional intelligence alongside experience will be better positioned to improve employee engagement, resident satisfaction, operational stability, and financial performance.Emotional intelligence isn't a "soft skill."It has become one of healthcare leadership's most valuable competitive advantages.ReferencesGoleman, D. Working with Emotional Intelligence. Bantam Books.Gallup. State of the Global Workplace.Journal of Healthcare Leadership. (2024). Systematic review on emotional intelligence in healthcare leadership.Ct, S., & Miners, C. T. H. (2006). Journal of Organizational Behavior, 27(1), 118.Joseph, D. L., & Newman, D. A. (2010). Journal of Applied Psychology, 95(1), 5478.O'Boyle, E. H., et al. (2011). Journal of Organizational Behavior, 32(5), 788818.--Heidi B. RosenPrincipal, CDX Health Services, Inc. (a division of Clinical Dynamix, Inc.)Ph: 561-732-4505hbr@cdxhealthservices.comwww.cdxhealthservices.comHeidi B. Rosen is the Founder & President of CDX Health Services and Clinical Dynamix, Inc. where she has spent more than 27 years advising healthcare organizations on executive leadership, talent strategy, and organizational growth. Having worked with thousands of healthcare leaders, she is passionate about helping organizations identify leaders who strengthen culture, inspire teams, and improve the lives of the people they serve. Her perspective is shaped not only by decades in executive search, but also by her family's personal journey through senior living.