As technology develops, the ways that malicious individuals prey on vulnerable individuals are constantly evolving. While it may be easy for most people to keep up-to-date by reading the news or doing a quick search on the internet, it can also be easy to become a victim of some more convincing scammers.
Older adults in particular are targeted more frequently, especially if they are unfamiliar with modern technology. Billions of dollars each year have been lost due to these scams and not much of it has been recovered. Read on to find out more about the financial scams that are most often used on older adults to protect your loved ones.
The Miracle Cure Scam
This is one of the most common scams out there – and for good reason. When older adults are coping with a long-term or chronic health disease, they can feel trapped and distressed, or even feel like a burden on their loved ones. This makes them desperate for any kind of cure.
It is important that you do not take any kinds of medication that you did not purchase from your physician or was otherwise recommended by them. Even if it is bought from a reputable drugstore or advertised by a leading celebrity, chances are that advertising can exaggerate the capabilities of that product. More importantly, if it sounds like it is too good to be true, chances are that it probably is.
Final Wishes Fraud
Many companies have started producing commercials that promise to help you plan for your final wishes. However, this is an extremely emotional decision and the elderly can be vulnerable and grieving when approaching this. It is essential that they have a trusted family member or friend to go with them to make any final decisions. More importantly, take the time to talk to several funeral homes and do research on what is necessary and what is not. The funeral homes are legally mandated to provide the pricing of their services over the phone so make sure to ask questions and understand the process before committing and signing any contracts.
Conniving Telemarketers
Just because it is a reputable company, does not mean that they are entirely reliable. Many businesses nowadays have started using telemarketers who will engage older adults in conversation. Whether it is giving your personal information over the phone or unlocking free rewards with a small purchase or any other kind of pre-paid services, do not engage with these telemarketers. If necessary, note down the company and product and source for it from more reliable channels.
Secure Senior Living Options at Aston Gardens At Pelican Marsh
If you are worried about your loved one living in an insecure neighborhood, how about considering a placement at our senior living community? Not only have we created a safe and secure residence, but we also offer a wide array of exclusive senior living programs to enrich each and every day.
We believe that everyone deserves to live a purpose-filled life that is full of events to look forward to each day. Our approach is to eliminate all these different inconveniences of everyday life like maintenance of the home, chores, cooking, and of course, any worries about your safety.
For more information on our different programs or living options, contact us today and our senior living coordinator will get back to you shortly.
