Ways to Combat Financial Crimes Against Seniors
Anthology of Millis
For more information about the author, click to view their website: Anthology of Millis
Jul 15, 2024
Massachusetts - Boston Metro West
As our society progresses into the digital age, senior citizens are finding themselves increasingly targeted by financial scams. Whether it’s through deceptive phone calls, fraudulent emails or sophisticated online productions, older adults are often seen as easy prey for scammers looking to exploit their trust and vulnerability. However, there are ways that friends and family continue protecting seniors from scams through proactive collaboration.
The consequences of falling victim to these scams can be financially and emotionally devastating, misleading seniors to give up their hard-earned savings and leaving them feeling isolated and betrayed. This financial deception can have long-term consequences on seniors who have been scammed.
In this blog, we’ll explore the prevalence of financial fraud cases targeting seniors, the tactics used by scammers and most importantly, how we can work together to protect elderly loved ones from falling victim to crimes against seniors.
Common Types of Financial Deception
Retirement scams result in a loss of more than $28 billion each year in the United States. Senior identity theft scams come in a variety of forms, such as identity theft, sweepstakes and lottery scams, and romance scams. Many scams come to senior citizens unsolicited – a scammer calls or sends correspondence unprompted and uses a sense of urgency before seniors realize they have been taken advantage of.
One of the most common financial crimes against the elderly involves sweepstakes or lottery scams – informing them that they have received an unexpected windfall and must act immediately to ensure that they receive the winnings. This tactic is often to secure money through gift card purchases or to access bank accounts or debit cards.
The lure of romance scams
In 2020, romance scams accounted for the highest total reported losses among all scams reported to the Federal Trade Commission. Older adults are especially susceptible to romance scams, as the number of adults ages 55-64 who reported participating in online dating applications has doubled over the last few years. In 2020, seniors lost more than $139 million in relationship scams alone.
Seniors are often at risk for isolation, loneliness and depression, and romance scams may present a new opportunity for a connection. People perpetrating these scams know the touchpoints to engage seniors in romantic interludes. Utilizing flattery and compliments makes victims feel special, lowering their defenses and making them more susceptible to the sales pitch (or scam).
Scammers work to establish trust quickly, and then a sense of urgency emerges – suddenly, the person on the other end of the phone needs a quick loan, or they are stranded and need to get home. These moments are the perfect opportunities for scammers to pounce on unsuspecting victims.
Retirement scams are often rooted in false promises – something that you will see throughout many crimes against seniors. Scammers prey on the basic needs and desires of every human – the opportunity for more money or a late-in-life love. Seniors may lack technological familiarity and be susceptible to scams that prey on their trust. Because seniors do not navigate technology as younger generations do, they can be more vulnerable when a scammer presents themselves as an authority figure, such as a police officer or government official requesting information.
Recognizing and Avoiding Financial Scams
To protect loved ones against scams, have a conversation with them so that they know what kind of red flags to notice. Crimes against the elderly happen fairly quickly, based on a sense of urgency and misplaced trust.
One of the first red flags to consider is that unsolicited phone calls or emails should be treated with extreme caution. If it sounds too good to be true, it often is. Many people get caught up in the “get rich quick” ideas that scammers often present. Seniors should watch out for these surprise offers and always verify the identity of callers when contacted. Scammers do not want to answer questions; they just want to take advantage of seniors. As soon as you try to uncover the truth, the scammer will often end the communication.
Do not release personal information to people you do not know
In addition, anyone who contacts you and requests personal information should also be thoroughly vetted for the need for that particular information. Businesses and organizations such as banks and the IRS have safety protocols in place to protect sensitive information, so they will not call you to request your account information directly. It’s already known to them if you are a customer. Do not release this information, including bank account numbers, debit card numbers and PINs. This type of financial identity fraud is one of the easiest ways for scammers to access seniors’ assets.
Do not send money to people you don’t personally know
Further protect yourself by not transferring or wiring money through financial services such as Western Union, which can be used worldwide. You may not be completely aware of who you are paying. Even more, seniors have fallen prey to losing an additional $12 million each year through cryptocurrency scams. Cryptocurrency is a relatively new form of payment that can be confusing if you are not familiar with it, and it can also be used worldwide. Once it’s been paid, there is no recourse to get it back.
Be cautious of high-pressure sales tactics
Life in 2024 moves very quickly, but beware of high-urgency tactics, such limited-time offers or limited quantities, which lowers seniors’ guards when it comes to taking the time to consider the proposition. During this time, scammers may brush off or diminish older adults’ objections or questions, pressing for an immediate resolution to the offer, which often includes accessing financial information.
Ask for help from trusted professionals and close family members
Many seniors do not report scam attempts or money loss because of embarrassment. When looking back after you have been scammed, the concerning red flags may be easier to see after you are out of the situation. If you have questions about the validity of an offer, purchase or unexpected romance, consult with trusted family members or financial advisors before releasing information or exchanging money.
Family members should offer comfort and emotional assistance after loved ones have been scammed. It is often an embarrassing stigma to realize you have been scammed, paired with the personal financial deception as well. Friends and family members should lend an understanding ear and continue conversations and education to prevent further scams.
Resources and reporting
For elderly fraud protection and ongoing scams, The National Elder Fraud Hotline staffs compassionate and knowledgeable support specialists who can help older adults navigate the confusion and loss after fraud. This free service is available to all senior citizens and can be a valuable resource.
When calling the Elder Fraud Hotline, seniors will reach a case manager who will help them through the reporting process at the federal, state and local levels. They will also be connected with other resources on a case-by-case basis.
Additionally, protect yourself by investing in financial fraud prevention services. Research the best identity theft protection for seniors and make the decision that is right for your family.
Attend locally hosted events from banks, nonprofit organizations and our Anthology communities such as Anthology of King of Prussia, Anthology of Millis and Anthology of Farmington Hills, which host scam prevention discussions and offer resources for residents to protect themselves from crimes against seniors.
In conclusion, as we navigate the increasingly complex landscape of financial scams targeting the elderly, one of the most powerful tools at our disposal is continuing education. By empowering seniors with knowledge about common scams, red flags to watch for and strategies to protect themselves, we not only enhance their financial literacy but also bolster their ability to safeguard their hard-earned assets.
As advocates for the well-being of our senior loved ones and community members, Anthology communities commit to providing ongoing education and support. Through collaboration and knowledge, we can help ensure that our residents remain vigilant, informed and resilient against financial exploitation.
- To view the original version of this article visit www.anthologyseniorliving.com/blog/ways-to-combat-financial-crimes-against-seniors
- Seniors Blue Book was not involved in the creation of this content.
Other Articles You May Like
Harmony Mental Health Assisted Living Program Named 2024 Recipient of LeadingAges Program Innovation Annual Achievement Award
Harmony Mental Health Assisted Living Program Named 2024 Recipient of LeadingAges Program Innovation Annual Achievement AwardFramingham, MA (October 10, 2024) Mary Ann Morse at Heritage Assisted Living is proud to announce that its Harmony Mental Health Program has been named the recipient of the LeadingAge 2024 Program Innovation Annual Achievement Award. This distinction honors groundbreaking programs that transform aging services through creative, innovative approaches.The award was presented at the LeadingAge 70th Annual Meeting of Membership on October 9, 2024, at the College of the Holy Cross. Lisa Kubiak, President & CEO of Mary Ann Morse Healthcare Corp., and Brian Kelly, Executive Director of Mary Ann Morse at Heritage, accepted the award on behalf of the organization."Receiving this award is an incredible honor that underscores our dedication to providing compassionate, specialized care for aging adults facing mental health challenges," said Kubiak. "The Harmony Program began as a separate, secured community and has evolved - thanks to the vision, hard work, and commitment of our team - into an integrated, supportive environment. Its a model that reflects our belief in the power of a holistic approach to care, allowing our residents to transition and thrive within a safe, nurturing community."The Harmony Mental Health Program has been recognized for its groundbreaking approach in meeting the distinct mental health needs of older adults, including those facing conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Acknowledging the increasing demand for comprehensive mental health services, the program offers an innovative alternative to traditional assisted living by providing a transitional, step-down option for seniors requiring specialized mental health support following psychiatric hospitalization."I believe our comprehensive approach fills a crucial gap in mental health care by combining therapeutic support, social integration, and residential comfort, adds Chet Olson, Harmony Program Director. Our goal is to enhance residents' mental wellness, foster social skills, and support their journey towards greater independence, ultimately preparing them for transitions back to traditional assisted living or home settings whenever possible."Located on the eight-acre campus of Mary Ann Morse at Heritage, alongside traditional and memory care assisted living programs, the Harmony program fosters a nurturing, non-institutional environment. It prioritizes individualized care and psycho-social support, empowering residents to live fulfilling lives within a compassionate community setting, where their mental and emotional well-being is the focus. Residents receive assistance from partnering clinicians and other health professionals, including McLean Hospital-affiliated psychiatrists, care managers, therapists, a social worker, and a dedicated nurse practitioner.About Mary Ann Morse Healthcare Corp. Mary Ann Morse Healthcare, a nonprofit organization, offers a continuum of senior living and healthcare services and has been a trusted community resource for over 30 years within the MetroWest region. Mary Ann Morse at Heritage provides traditional, memory care, and mental health assisted living programs for todays seniors. Mary Ann Morse Healthcare Center offers short-term outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation, as well as long-term care, including memory, respite, and hospice care. Mary Ann Morse Home Care provides 24/7 Medicare-certified home health and personal in-home care. As a nonprofit, we are deeply committed to our mission of helping seniors live their best lives and embrace healthy aging, no matter where they are on lifes journey. www.maryannmorse.orgAbout LeadingAge MassachusettsLeadingAge Massachusetts is dedicated to expanding the world of possibilities for aging. Together with its national partner, LeadingAge, it provides tools, resources, and knowledge to support members in overcoming day-to-day challenges while encouraging strategic thinking for the future. The organization represents the full spectrum of not-for-profit aging services providers across the state, championing mission-driven organizations that are integral to their communities. Its members are collaborative, respected, and forward-thinking, committed to meeting the needs of older adults. LeadingAge Massachusetts serves as the trusted and influential voice in the field of aging services. For more information, visit www.leadingagema.org. For more information on the Harmony program, please visit www.maryannmorse.org or contact Chet Olson, Program Director, 508-665-5329, colson@maryannmorse.org
Retirement Roulette: Easy Transition to Retirement
As you begin to transition to retirement, you'll find a mix of anticipated plans and unexpected challenges awaiting you. Transitioning into retirement marks a major life shift, and the unknowns ahead might stir up mixed feelings about retirement. You may wonder how to fill your time, explore new passions or derive meaning in this phase of life.After dedicating your life to preparing to transition to retirement, the moment has arrived. What will you make of it? Embrace a fresh perspective on aging: Spin the wheel of retirement roulette and let fate guide your journey. This approach highlights life's unpredictability and the excitement of discovering unexpected joys in retirement.Whether its retirement risks, rewards or retirement challenges that youre facing, were here to help. Together, lets go all in and cash out BIG together in retirement!Tips for Transitioning from Work to a Satisfying Retirement Start transitioning gradually: In the months leading to retirement transition, start cutting back on the amount of work that you do, allowing time for your successor to have time to get acclimated to the new role and introducing more free time into your daily life.Establish a daily routine: Provide structure and purpose to your day by creating (and sticking to!) a daily schedule. Doing this is going to help you create a purposeful life in retirement. Figure out what things you enjoy doing or those that you dont look forward to and see where you can move things around to fit your newfound freedom.Stay connected with friends and family: Leaving the workplace often means leaving friends and colleagues that you have become accustomed to having in your life every day. When you are retired, this may feel disorienting. Reach out to your friends and family members during this time or set up a time to have coffee with an old coworker a few times a month.Explore hobbies and make new connections: Its time to join that knitting club or the swimming class that you have been eyeing for a while. Taking up new or favorite hobbies can help you meet new people and form new bonds. Take this time to explore retirement adventures and do what you want to do! Do You Have Retirement Anxiety? A retirement transition can sometimes feel that youre putting all of your money on RED, just to see a lot of GREEN! But sometimes, were scared to make that gamble with our newfound freedom.Retirement anxiety refers to the feelings of stress, worry or apprehension that some individuals experience when approaching retirement. This anxiety can manifest in various ways, such as concerns about financial stability, loss of purpose or identity, changes in social relationships, fear of health issues and uncertainty about how to spend one's time in a satisfying retirement.Common sources of anxiety about retirement include:Financial concerns: Many people worry about whether they have saved enough money to sustain their desired lifestyle throughout retirement. Factors such as insufficient savings, unexpected expenses or economic downturns can exacerbate these worries.Loss of identity and purpose: Work often provides individuals with a sense of purpose, structure and social connection. Retiring may lead to feelings of loss or uncertainty about one's identity and role in society, particularly if one's identity is closely tied to their career.Health concerns: As people age, they may become more aware of their health and physical limitations. Concerns about declining health, access to healthcare and long-term care needs can contribute to retirement anxiety.Our Anthology at Boynton Beach community, nestled on the Florida coast among tall palm trees and lush greenery, offers walking paths and a fully equipped wellness center for residents to use to stay healthy, improve flexibility and reduce stress.Changes in social relationships: Transition to retirement can bring changes in social dynamics, especially if one's social circle primarily consists of coworkers or if the retiree's partner is still working. Adjusting to new routines and finding ways to maintain social connections can be challenging.At Anthology of Louisville, which offers premier senior living in Louisville, KY, our leadership team works to create and host activities and socialization opportunities for residents every day. Our vibrant activity programs are a favorite for our residents, allowing them to socialize in programs or even around the dinner table with fellow friends and neighbors.Its what makes Anthology such an exciting place to live! There are always new connections to be made.Addressing retirement anxiety often involves a combination of financial planning, emotional preparation and lifestyle adjustments. Seeking support from financial advisors, therapists, support groups and loved ones can help individuals navigate this transition more smoothly and alleviate some of the anxiety associated with the transition to retirement.Some seniors choose to go into independent or assisted living lifestyle options when entering retirement. Assisted living, especially, is beneficial for those who can no longer handle everyday tasks like housekeeping and cooking on their own.Anthology of Planos accommodations include a range of spacious, private floor plans with state-of-the-art amenities and built-in emergency alert systems in residences. Our dedicated team takes care of household tasks like cleaning, trash removal and linen services so you can spend your time doing more of the things you love. Looking for senior living in Plano? Wed love to meet you!Choose Your Adventure with Anthology Senior LivingWith Anthology Senior Living, you spin the wheel every day and decide where youd like it to take you. With this may sound equally exciting and terrifying, living at Anthology gives you the autonomy to choose how your days and your life go!Living at Anthology means that all of the mundane activities like housekeeping, laundry and transportation are covered and you can fill your days with the kind of activities that you are interested in.From excellent dining experiences to planned activities, events and amenities and everything in between spinning the wheel of retirement roulette is a chance to explore the unexpected and embrace the unpredictable everyday events that make life worth living! Retiring soon? Consider moving into a beautiful Anthology Senior Living community in retirement for the carefree lifestyle youve always craved. We call that rolling the dice and winning twice.
Why Every Family Needs a Respite Care Plan
As a primary caregiver for a senior loved one, you may sometimes feel drained and exhausted. Like most family members, you probably never expected to be a caregiver for an older loved one and did not imagine the challenges.Caregiving responsibilities can be demanding on your physical and emotional well-being. Carving out time for yourself can seem impossible, especially with the added demands of family and work life.Fortunately, professional respite care is an excellent resource for times when you need a much-needed break or a breather.Why is Respite Care Important?Respite care is temporary, short-term assistance to support your loved one at home while you work, travel, manage other responsibilities, or handle personal tasks. Respite care can provide essential relief from the stresses of caregiving so you can focus on yourself.A respite care plan can continue your seniors desire to age in place at home when you need coverage for an unexpected event, a vacation or out-of-town work trip, or even just a pause from your regular caregiving routine.While caring for an older adult is a rewarding job, it can also be arduous. Taking breaks from your senior care duties is essential for your physical and mental health. In fact, family members responsible for senior care are at a higher risk of caregiver burnout, which can cause depression, anxiety, and fatigue.A respite care plan can give you time to relax, refresh, and attend to your personal needs before you experience caregiver burnout. Routine respite care can improve your resilience, energy levels, and balance between various aspects of your life so you can continue to support your loved one.Unfortunately, many primary caregivers wait until they are exhausted and overwhelmed to investigate respite care options. The best time to establish a respite care plan is before these feelings begin.Planning for respite care allows you and your loved one to research multiple options, including other adult day care, assisted-living facilities, or in-home care. Understanding your options in advance will give you time to make the best choice for your loved one and budget.What Are the Advantages of In-Home Respite Care?In-home respite care can be a fantastic option for older adults who want to age in familiar surroundings.While adult day care and assisted living facilities provide on-site respite care, they entail your senior to leave home. Unfamiliar surroundings can be stressful and tiring for older adults. In addition, some centers do not provide transportation and may require seniors to attend a certain number of days or hours per week on an ongoing basis.When you choose in-home care from Visiting Angels, a professional caregiver will come to your loved ones home and provide personalized and compassionate care tailored to their unique needs.Visiting Angels offers flexible scheduling options that range from a few hours to 24/7 care and can be scheduled a few times a year or on a recurring basis. An established relationship with a Visiting Angels respite care professional can make it easier for you and your loved one if you experience an event or emergency requiring you to change your loved ones care schedule.CONTACT US today to learn more about our helpful respite home care services. We are available 24/7, call us at 781-395-0023 for any questions you may have.
Local Services By This Author
The Residence at Charles Meadow
Independent Living 125 Dover Road, Millis, Massachusetts, 02054Your story continues at Anthology of Millis. Tucked in a quiet, wooded setting near the Charles River in Millis, Massachusetts, Anthology of Millis is a luxury community offering an exceptional lifestyle. Our community is located near downtown Medfield, offering easy access to the amenities of both Medfield and Millis. Whether youre looking for the freedom of a maintenance-free private cottage, a little extra help with the activities of daily living, or you have a loved one living with memory loss, our stunning community can support you in every stage of your retirement years.