Skip to content
The-Arbors-Ivy-Helping-Seniors-Avoid-Scams

Helping Seniors Avoid Scams

We have all heard these scary stories! While any of us could be a victim of fraud, we all know the elderly are particularly vulnerable. Elder fraud is any scam that targets older adults and exploits them for monetary gain, such as financial fraud or identity theft. Scammers aim to deceive our seniors with false promises, pretending to be a loved one in trouble or even present as a government official. They attempt to gain their trust so they can gather financial details, personal information or to even steal possessions from them. There are a wide array of ways these scammers attempt to deceive your loved one out of their hard earned money. Unfortunately, this issue has become more and more prevalent recently and seniors are a prime target.

Seniors are typically targets for several reasons, including:

  • They are often not tech-savvy and therefore easier to scam online or over the phone.
  • They may have cognitive or physical impairments that make decision making more challenging
  • They often have considerable savings and possessions that are of higher value
  • They may fear reporting a scam out of embarrassment, shame or fear their loved ones with see them as incompetent
  • They can be more trusting of others- especially if they feel a loved one is in danger
  • They choose individuals they think they can manipulate to quickly gain their trust and confuse them

The fallout from a scam can be devastating. According to the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Americans over the age of 60 lost $1.7 billion to fraud last year. Here are a few common scams, and some ways that you can educate your loved one in hopes to avoid being their next victim.

The Grandparents Scam:

This is a very common scam in which the caller pretends that a grandchild is in trouble, has been hurt or even arrested. They use information off the internet to act as if they know the grandchild, in some instances they may even pretend to be the grandchild.

The victim will then be asked to wire money to ensure the help to their grandchild. In some cases they may ask them to withdraw money from their account, and they send an uber or ride-share to collect the money. Typically the caller is using urgency and secrecy to rush the victim into doing what they say. These callers use deception, intimidation and threats to force you to act quickly.

Ask them questions that only a grandchild would know the answer to. Take your time and think through what they are saying. Ask for a number where you can call them back. And lastly, if in doubt just hang up.

Government Imposter Scams:

In this type of scam, they will contact seniors pretending to be a government official from well-known government agencies. This could include Medicare, the IRS and Social Security. These callers usually have some basic information about their victim and even know their social security number.

Medicare Scam:

Recently Medicare changed from social security numbers to a randomly assigned number. The caller will ask for the Senior to confirm their number for activation purposes. They may say they require a new card and in order to send that out they need to confirm their details.

  • Medicare will never contact you for your Medicare number or other personal information
  • Medicare will never visit your home
  • Medicare will never sell you anything
  • Medicare will never call to enroll you without you initiating the process

Please visit the Medicare website for more ways to keep your loved one safe from Medicare fraud.

Social Security Scam:

In this scam the imposter claims your Social Security Number has been suspended due to an alleged crime. In order to reinstate it, they request payment or gift cards to fix the issue.

IRS Scam:

During tax season, they may call claiming to be from the IRS saying there is an issue with their tax return. They will ask for personal information to secure your tax file, when in reality they will then use the information to file a false tax return or commit identity theft.

Charity Scam:

This scam preys on a seniors desire to help others. Most of us are very willing to make donations and support charities to those who are less fortunate than ourselves or to those in dire need. These callers pretend to be from a legitimate charity to steal donations and personal information. These scams are especially prevalent after a natural disaster such as a hurricane, earthquakes, fires, etc.

The best way to determine a charity’s authenticity is to first research them before you make any donations. Check out the Better Business Bureau or Charity Navigator. You can also google the charity name they provide along with scam to see what google may know. If you are still unsure if they are real, you may consider not donating to be on the safe side.

Sweepstakes and Lottery Scam: With this scam the caller tells the senior they have won a contest, lottery or sweepstakes that they never entered. In order to collect their winnings they need to pay upfront taxes and fees and request their bank information in order to do so.
Always be leary when hearing you won something you never remember entering for.

Tech-Support Scam:

In this scam the caller says they are tech support from big companies like Apple or Microsoft. They will say that your computer or device is at risk of a virus and then ask that you grant them remote access or ask that you pay for additional software to protect your device. Real tech companies will not call you when there is a problem with your device. These scammers are counting on the elderly not being tech-savvy and therefore easier to persuade something is wrong with their computer or phone.

If you or a relative have been the victim of a senior citizen scam, report it. Visit identitytheft.gov and reportfraud.ftc.gov to make an official report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Then, follow the steps of the fraud victim’s checklist to recover your funds and secure your accounts.If the scammer has gotten hold of your Social Security number, report it to the three major credit bureaus (Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion) and the Social Security Administration.

Unfortunately, even if you are mindful of these tips, being scammed can still happen. By taking the time to familiarize yourself with these potential scams, you have already taken a huge step in ensuring your protection. Knowing what to look for and how best to safeguard your accounts and personal information is a key step to avoid falling prey to these scams. If you do receive a call or email from someone you don’t know asking personal questions you should be suspicious. A good rule of thumb is that if it sounds too good to be true, it most likely is.

By: Sara Robertson

Did You Enjoy The Article? Get More Like This.

Receive relevant information, touching resident stories and helpful tips directly to your email inbox. All you need to do is subscribe to our VIP newsletter “Family Ties”. It’s FREE and you can unsubscribe anytime.

Search For

Browse by Topic

Recent Posts

Assisted Living Questions

Have More Questions?

Deciding to help a loved one transition to a senior living option is not an easy decision. We can help you get the clarity, answers, and support needed to lessen your worries and take the next steps.

Click the button below to let us know how we can help you further.

The Arbors® and The Ivy™ at Ellington are not affiliated with or related in any way to Arbors of Hop Brook Retirement Community in Manchester, Connecticut.

Back To Top

a box here


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Our eBrochure

Simply enter your details below to get access.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Our eBrochure

Simply enter your details below to get access.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

[activecampaign form=91 css=1]
Note: Your Privacy is very important to us and your details are kept confidential.
You can easily unsubscribe at any time.

Instant Access to the Program Overview Brochure

Get more details about our signature Memory Care program to determine how well it will fit your loved one’s situation. Simply fill out the fields below to get access to the PDF.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Have you decided that assisted living is the best option for your elderly parent, and now are feeling overwhelmed on how to begin your search for the right community?

This guide will go over what you need to know before you make a decision.

[activecampaign form=23]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Are you considering assisted living for yourself or a loved one but are hesitant about the cost? Assisted living costs, services and amenities vary greatly among the last and most expensive communities, and costs are higher in some states than others.

This guide will answer questions you may have about the costs of assisted living and recommend resources to help you pay for it.

[activecampaign form=22]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Talking to your aging parent about moving to an assisted living community isn’t easy.

Often, many adult children avoid bringing it up because it can be a sensitive topic.

This guide will provide you with helpful tips and insight on how to have a productive conversation with your parent and siblings regarding your parent’s future.

[activecampaign form=21]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Difficult behaviors in elderly adults are very common. They may be an expression of frustration your loved one feels or a symptom of early stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s.

This guide will provide you with skills and knowledge on how to handle difficult behaviors your aging parent may be experiencing.

[activecampaign form=20]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Becoming a family caregiver can be a rewarding experience. It also has its challenges.

There are many questions to answer before making the decision to take care of a loved one.

This guide will provide answers to questions you may have on this topic.

[activecampaign form=19]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Is your parent or loved one depressed, or just in a bad mood?

What does medication and illness have to do with depression?

How can you help? In this guide, you will be provided with answers to the difficult questions you may have about depression.

[activecampaign form=18]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Has your aging parent recently lost interest in activities they used to enjoy? Have you noticed a change in their mood and behavior?

This guide will provide you with resources and tools on how to identify depression, what are the common causes of depression, and how to promote mental health in your aging loved one.

[activecampaign form=17]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Does your loved one need more support than what they are getting? Would they benefit from some assistance with daily activities?

In this guide, you’ll find answers to the most common questions asked about assisted living.

[activecampaign form=16]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Where do you start searching for assisted living or memory care communities?

What qualities in a community should you look for? How do you know you made the right decision?

[activecampaign form=15]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Has your dad stopped getting together for lunches or outings with friends or visits with neighbors? Have you stopped enjoying time with your parents because you’re a caregiver?

Choosing an assisted living community is a big decision. Learn how to find the right one for you and your loved one.

[activecampaign form=14]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


No one ever plans to be sick or disabled, and disasters, man-made or natural, can happen at any time, anywhere.

Yet older adults are among the most vulnerable during a crisis. That’s why it’s critical that seniors, and those who care for them, prepare for emergencies.

[activecampaign form=13]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Moving to assisted living is a life-changing event.

This guide provides tips and ideas on downsizing, what to pack and how to make the transition smooth for your senior parent.

[activecampaign form=12]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


In this eBook, you’ll learn how to talk with family and friends about caregiving challenges, how to deal with a parent who is resistant to help, how to get more caregiving help from your siblings, and how to keep your job while caregiving.

[activecampaign form=11]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Have you had to cut back your hours at work to care for your mom? Are you worried about administering medications or injections?

Have you stopped getting together with friends, either because you don’t have the time or you’re too exhausted? Are you becoming the invisible second patient?

[activecampaign form=10]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


A Guide to the Most Common Family Caregiver Challenges Associated with Caring for an Aging Parent.

You’ll learn about the true costs of being a family caregiver, common family conflicts that can occur when caring for parents, and some of the unexpected challenges of caregiving.

[activecampaign form=9]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


In this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, including the early symptoms of dementia; the seven stages of dementia and the symptoms that typically accompany each one; and the signs it’s time to start exploring your memory care options.

[activecampaign form=8]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


In this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between assisted living and memory care, how health care professionals are trained in dementia care, common features of a memory care community, and questions you should ask when exploring your memory care options.

[activecampaign form=7]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Navigating adult sibling relationships can be a challenge, but coming together for the sake of your parent is important.

In this guide, you’ll learn about common sibling conflicts that arise when caring for parents, strategies for getting siblings on board, and where to turn to for help.

[activecampaign form=6]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


Assisted living can be a touchy subject. No matter how you approach it, your parent is likely to have objections to something.

As you help them transition to a new stage of life, it helps to be prepared with answers to their questions and concerns.

[activecampaign form=5]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


This checklist will help to make sure you are getting the most out of your visit to The Arbors.

The list details what important questions to ask during your visit so you are able to make an enlightened choice and find the best assisted living community for your needs.

[activecampaign form=4]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide


If you’re unsure what Assisted Living looks like in real life, whether there is a difference with nursing homes or a desire to see how community life unfolds, then this guide is exactly what you need.

A guide to discover the Care Team and a Typical Day in Assisted Living.

[activecampaign form=3]
NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-How to Choose the Right Assisted Living Community: What You Need to Know Before You Begin Your SearchHave you decided that assisted living is the best option for your elderly parent, and now are feeling overwhelmed on how to begin your search for the right community?

This guide will go over what you need to know before you make a decision.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Assisted Living Costs and AffordabilityAre you considering assisted living for yourself or a loved one but are hesitant about the cost? Assisted living costs, services and amenities vary greatly among the last and most expensive communities, and costs are higher in some states than others.

This guide will answer questions you may have about the costs of assisted living and recommend resources to help you pay for it.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Having “The Talk” With Your Parent: It’s Time for Assisted Living
Talking to your aging parent about moving to an assisted living community isn’t easy.

Often, many adult children avoid bringing it up because it can be a sensitive topic.

This guide will provide you with helpful tips and insight on how to have a productive conversation with your parent and siblings regarding your parent’s future.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-The Challenges of Aging: How to Handle Your Aging Parent’s Difficult BehaviorsDifficult behaviors in elderly adults are very common. They may be an expression of frustration your loved one feels or a symptom of early stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s.

This guide will provide you with skills and knowledge on how to handle difficult behaviors your aging parent may be experiencing.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Becoming a Family Caregiver: What You Need to Know Before Deciding to Take Care of a Loved One
Becoming a family caregiver can be a rewarding experience. It also has its challenges.

There are many questions to answer before making the decision to take care of a loved one.

This guide will provide answers to questions you may have on this topic.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Helping Your Parent Manage DepressionIs your parent or loved one depressed, or just in a bad mood?

What does medication and illness have to do with depression?

How can you help? In this guide, you will be provided with answers to the difficult questions you may have about depression.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Is It Depression? A Guide to Identifying and Addressing Depression in Aging AdultsHas your aging parent recently lost interest in activities they used to enjoy? Have you noticed a change in their mood and behavior?

This guide will provide you with resources and tools on how to identify depression, what are the common causes of depression, and how to promote mental health in your aging loved one.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Assisted Living Frequently Asked Questions and Answers
Does your loved one need more support than what they are getting? Would they benefit from some assistance with daily activities?

In this guide, you’ll find answers to the most common questions asked about assisted living.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-Why We Chose the Arbors Assisted Living and Memory Care: A Collection of Stories from Residents Living at The ArborsWhere do you start searching for assisted living or memory care communities?

What qualities in a community should you look for? How do you know you made the right decision?


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

The Arbors Assisted Living-Guide-7 Warning Signs It’s Time to Make the Move to Assisted Living
Has your dad stopped getting together for lunches or outings with friends or visits with neighbors? Have you stopped enjoying time with your parents because you’re a caregiver?

Choosing an assisted living community is a big decision. Learn how to find the right one for you and your loved one.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-Getting Your Affairs in Order
No one ever plans to be sick or disabled, and disasters, man-made or natural, can happen at any time, anywhere.

Yet older adults are among the most vulnerable during a crisis. That’s why it’s critical that seniors, and those who care for them, prepare for emergencies.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-Guide to Making the Move to Assisted Living
Moving to assisted living is a life-changing event.

This guide provides tips and ideas on downsizing, what to pack and how to make the transition smooth for your senior parent.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-Solutions to Common Caregiving ChallengesIn this eBook, you’ll learn how to talk with family and friends about caregiving challenges, how to deal with a parent who is resistant to help, how to get more caregiving help from your siblings, and how to keep your job while caregiving.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

How Moving My Loved One to The Arbors Eliminated My Caregiving ChallengesHave you had to cut back your hours at work to care for your mom? Are you worried about administering medications or injections?

Have you stopped getting together with friends, either because you don’t have the time or you’re too exhausted? Are you becoming the invisible second patient?


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-When is the Right Time for Memory Care?In this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between Alzheimer’s and dementia, including the early symptoms of dementia; the seven stages of dementia and the symptoms that typically accompany each one; and the signs it’s time to start exploring your memory care options.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-What to Look for in a Memory Care CommunityIn this guide, you’ll learn about the difference between assisted living and memory care, how healthcare professionals are trained in dementia care, common features of a memory care community, and questions you should ask when exploring your memory care options.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-Brothers and Sisters
Navigating adult sibling relationships can be a challenge, but coming together for the sake of your parent is important.

In this guide, you’ll learn about common sibling conflicts that arise when caring for parents, strategies for getting siblings on board, and where to turn to for help.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-The StandoffAssisted living can be a touchy subject. No matter how you approach it, your parent is likely to have objections to something.

As you help them transition to a new stage of life, it helps to be prepared with answers to their questions and concerns.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-11 Most Common Caregiving Challenges
A Guide to the Most Common Family Caregiver Challenges Associated with Caring for an Aging Parent.

You’ll learn about the true costs of being a family caregiver, common family conflicts that can occur when caring for parents, and some of the unexpected challenges of caregiving.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-Checklist_ Questions to Ask When Touring an Assisted Living Community
This checklist will help to make sure you are getting the most out of your visit to The Arbors.

The list details what important questions to ask during your visit so you are able to make an enlightened choice and find the best assisted living community for your needs.

NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Guide

 

Guide-What is Assisted Living Really LikeIf you’re unsure what Assisted Living looks like in real life, whether there is a difference with nursing homes or a desire to see how community life unfolds, then this guide is exactly what you need.

A guide to discover the Care Team and a Typical Day in Assisted Living.

NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.

Instant Access to Free Cost Comparison guide

You’re probably wondering how much the different senior living options compare to your current situation.
If you do, then this guide is exactly what you need.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details nor spam your inbox.


NOTE: Your privacy is important to us. We’ll never share your details or spam your inbox.

[activecampaign form=8]