How to Reduce the Number of Medicare Robo Calls

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.

Aging rarely happens all at once. More often, it unfolds through small changes that signal it may be time for extra supporta missed appointment, groceries feeling heavier than they used to, or a fall that doesnt cause injury but raises concern. For seniors and families in Pueblo, these moments can bring uncertainty: What kind of help is needed now? How do we plan ahead without overreacting?Visiting Angels-Pueblo helps families answer those questions with clarity and confidence. Through flexible, non-medical home care, Visiting Angels-Pueblo supports seniors during life transitionsallowing them to remain at home while adapting to changing needs. Rather than waiting for a crisis, many Pueblo families use non-medical care as a proactive step that preserves independence, reduces stress, and creates a plan for the future.Why Transitions Are a Pivotal Moment in AgingTransitions can arrive in many forms, including: The loss of a spouse or partner A minor fall or health scare Deciding to stop driving Fatigue that makes daily tasks harder Growing concern from family members about safety These moments dont always require medical care, but they do call for extra support. Non-medical home care provides help before challenges escalatebridging the gap between full independence and higher levels of care.A Visiting Angels-Pueblo care coordinator explains, We often meet families at a turning point. Our goal is to help them plan early, so seniors stay in control of their choices.Non-Medical Home Care as a Planning ToolToo often, care decisions are made during emergencies. Non-medical home care offers an alternative: gradual, thoughtful planning that evolves with a seniors needs.Visiting Angels-Pueblo helps families: Identify early signs that support would be helpful Start with limited care and increase only if needed Avoid sudden moves to facilities Maintain independence while improving safety This step-by-step approach helps seniors accept support on their own termswithout feeling overwhelmed.Supporting Transitions After a Health EventEven when medical treatment isnt required long-term, a health event can shake confidence. Seniors may feel weaker, more cautious, or anxious about being aloneeven if doctors say theyre fine.Non-medical home care can support recovery by: Assisting with personal care and mobility Helping with meals and household tasks Providing companionship during recovery Offering reassurance and supervision This support often helps seniors regain confidence while staying safely at home.Helping Seniors Accept Help Without Losing IndependenceOne of the biggest challenges families face is helping a loved one accept help. Seniors may fear that support means giving up independence or control over their lives.Visiting Angels-Pueblo addresses this by: Involving seniors in care decisions Respecting established routines and preferences Offering help incrementally Framing care as partnership, not dependency A Visiting Angels-Pueblo caregiver shares, We meet seniors where they are. We support what they want to keep doing, not take it away.Guidance and Reassurance for FamiliesTransitions can be just as stressful for families as they are for seniors. Adult children may worry about safety but struggle with how to start the conversation. Spouses may feel unsure about how much help is appropriate.Visiting Angels-Pueblo supports families by: Providing clear guidance during decision-making Offering consistent, reliable care Reducing second-guessing and worry Allowing families to focus on emotional connection Knowing there is a plan in place often brings tremendous peace of mind.Flexible Care That Grows with Changing NeedsA major advantage of non-medical home care is flexibility. Visiting Angels-Pueblo offers care plans that can adapt over time.Care may begin with: A few hours a week for companionship or errands And later expand to: Daily assistance with personal care Increased safety supervision More structured routine support This adaptability allows seniors to remain at home longeroften delaying or preventing the need for facility-based care.Staying Connected to Pueblo Life During TransitionsTransitions can cause seniors to withdraw from activities they enjoy. Non-medical home care helps reduce barriers so seniors can stay connected to their community.Caregivers may assist with: Transportation to appointments or social outings Accompaniment to church or community events Encouragement to maintain hobbies and routines In a community-oriented city like Pueblo, staying engaged often plays a key role in emotional well-being.A Local Perspective That Builds TrustVisiting Angels-Pueblo serves seniors and families right here in the local community. Caregivers understand Pueblos culture, values, and pace of lifemaking care feel natural rather than intrusive.Families appreciate working with a provider who understands: The importance of independence The desire to plan rather than react The value of staying at home whenever possible This local understanding helps build trust during times of change.When Its Time to Start the ConversationNon-medical home care may be a helpful next step when: Daily routines begin to feel overwhelming Family discussions about safety increase Seniors feel anxious about managing alone Caregiving stress grows Planning ahead feels wiser than waiting Visiting Angels-Pueblo helps families recognize these moments early and move forward with confidence.Frequently Asked QuestionsIs non-medical home care only for long-term needs? No. It can be short-term or ongoing, depending on the situation.Can care start small and increase later? Yes. Care plans are designed to adapt as needs change.Does non-medical care replace family involvement? No. It complements and supports families.Is care customized for each transition? Yes. Support is tailored to individual goals and preferences.Does Visiting Angels-Pueblo serve areas outside Pueblo? Services primarily cover Pueblo and surrounding Southern Colorado communities.Planning Today for Peace of Mind TomorrowAging brings changebut it doesnt have to bring uncertainty. With thoughtful planning and the right support, seniors can navigate life transitions while remaining safe, independent, and at home. Visiting Angels-Pueblo provides non-medical home care that helps Pueblo families turn moments of change into confident next steps. For families exploring non-medical home care as part of a long-term plan, more information about services and availability can be found on Visiting Angels-Pueblos Seniors Blue Book Listing

In Pueblo, caring for family is a deeply held value. Many older adults rely on spouses, adult children, or other relatives to help them remain at home as they age. While this care is given out of love, it often comes with significant emotional, physical, and logistical challenges. Over time, even the most devoted caregivers can feel overwhelmedespecially when they are trying to balance caregiving with work, parenting, and their own health.Visiting Angels-Pueblo understands that successful aging at home depends not only on supporting seniors, but also on supporting the family caregivers who stand beside them every day. Through non-medical home care, Visiting Angels-Pueblo helps families share the caregiving load, reduce stress, and create a healthier balance for everyone involved.The Growing Role of Family Caregivers in PuebloAcross Pueblo and Southern Colorado, family caregiving has become increasingly common. Seniors are living longer, and many prefer to remain at home rather than move into a facility. As a result, spouses and adult children often step into caregiving rolessometimes gradually, sometimes suddenly.Family caregivers may find themselves responsible for: Assisting with bathing, dressing, and grooming Preparing meals and managing household tasks Providing transportation and running errands Offering companionship and emotional support Monitoring safety and daily routines Over time, these responsibilities can take a toll, especially when caregivers feel they must handle everything alone.A Visiting Angels-Pueblo care coordinator notes, Caregivers often dont realize how much theyre doing until theyre exhausted. Our goal is to step in before burnout happens.Non-Medical Home Care as a Caregiver AllyNon-medical home care offers practical, hands-on support that directly eases caregiver strain. Rather than replacing family involvement, Visiting Angels-Pueblo complements itproviding assistance where help is most needed.Caregivers from Visiting Angels-Pueblo can help with: Personal care routines Light housekeeping and laundry Meal preparation and grocery support Transportation and accompaniment Supervision and companionship This shared approach allows family caregivers to step back, rest, and focus on their own well-beingknowing their loved one is safe and supported.Preserving Family RelationshipsOne of the most challenging aspects of caregiving is how it can change family dynamics. Spouses may begin to feel more like nurses than partners. Adult children may struggle to balance authority and respect when helping a parent.By handling many of the daily tasks, Visiting Angels-Pueblo helps families shift back into their original roles. Time spent together becomes less about managing responsibilities and more about enjoying meaningful connection.A Visiting Angels-Pueblo caregiver shares, When families dont have to focus on every task, they get to be present with each other again.Preventing Caregiver BurnoutBurnout doesnt happen all at onceit builds slowly through stress, fatigue, and constant worry. Non-medical home care plays an important role in preventing burnout by creating space for caregivers to recharge.Support from Visiting Angels-Pueblo can help caregivers: Get consistent breaks from daily responsibilities Maintain their own health and energy Reduce anxiety about safety and routines Feel confident that care is handled properly When caregivers are supported, they are better able to provide love, patience, and emotional presence.Flexibility That Fits Real LifeEvery caregiving situation is different. Some families need just a few hours of help each week, while others require daily support. Visiting Angels-Pueblo offers flexible, customizable care plans that adapt to each familys needs.Care schedules can: Be part-time or full-time Increase during periods of stress or transition Adjust as a seniors needs evolve This flexibility ensures families receive the right level of supportwithout unnecessary services or commitments.Supporting Seniors While Respecting IndependenceMany seniors worry that outside help means losing independence. Visiting Angels-Pueblo addresses this concern by providing care that encourages participation and autonomy.Caregivers assist where needed but involve seniors in daily tasks whenever possible. This respectful approach helps seniors feel capable and valued, while also reducing the physical demands placed on family caregivers.A Local Partner Families Can TrustAs a locally focused provider, Visiting Angels-Pueblo understands the values and expectations of Pueblo families. Care is delivered with respect for independence, dignity, and the close-knit nature of the community.Families often appreciate working with a provider who understands: The emotional weight of caregiving decisions The desire to keep loved ones at home The importance of trust and consistency This local connection helps build long-term relationships that families can rely on.When Caregivers Should Seek SupportMany caregivers wait too long before asking for help. Non-medical home care may be especially beneficial when: Caregiving begins to affect health or work Stress and fatigue become constant A senior needs supervision during the day Family members feel overwhelmed or isolated Safety concerns arise at home Visiting Angels-Pueblo helps families recognize these signs early and take proactive steps.Strengthening the Entire Care CircleWhen caregivers are supported, everyone benefits. Seniors receive consistent, compassionate care. Families experience less stress and more confidence. Relationships grow stronger instead of strained.Non-medical home care creates a care circle where responsibilities are sharedrather than carried alone.Frequently Asked QuestionsIs non-medical home care only for seniors living alone? No. It also supports seniors who live with family caregivers.Can care be temporary or short-term? Yes. Care can be short-term or ongoing, depending on needs.Does Visiting Angels-Pueblo replace family caregivers? No. Caregivers complement and support families.Can care schedules change over time? Yes. Care plans are flexible and adaptable.Does Visiting Angels-Pueblo serve areas outside Pueblo? Services primarily cover Pueblo and nearby Southern Colorado communities.Caring for Those Who CareFamily caregivers give their time, energy, and hearts every daybut they dont have to do it alone. Visiting Angels-Pueblo provides Pueblo families with compassionate non-medical home care that supports seniors while protecting the well-being of those who love them. For families seeking caregiver support through non-medical home care, more information about services and availability can be found on Visiting Angels-Pueblos Seniors Blue Book Listing