Scams Targeting Seniors
Seniors are often prime targets for scam artists because sometimes older adults might not realize they have been scammed, or they don’t speak up because they are ashamed or worried that it might be a sign of mental incompetence.
To help protect yourself and your loved one, get familiar with these typical scams:
1. Health Insurance and Prescription Drug Scams
Beware of bogus tests offered at shopping centers or health clubs that will then be billed to your insurance. Also, prescription drugs ordered over the internet might not be medication at all.
2. Funeral and Cemetery Fraud
A casket or embalming are not requirements for direct cremation, but some funeral homes may try to convince you that they are. Disreputable cemeteries may try to sell plots that are already taken.
3. Telemarketing Scams
Phone calls that promise vacations, deep discounts on medical supplies, or large prizes are often used by cons who want credit card numbers or bank account numbers. Once they have them, they can steal large amounts of money and claim it was legitimate.
4. Empty Promises of Cures
Products that promise cures for serious medical problems prey on vulnerability and hope, ensuring something that is simply too good to be true. If a “secret formula” seems too good to be true, it probably is.
5. Investment Scams
If high returns are “guaranteed” or you have to pay a fee up-front to obtain information, beware! Investment schemes always show “proof” of individuals who have earned great dividends, but as the scheme plays out, those who are snared later wind up losing money.
How to Avoid Scams
- Invest your money only with reputable firms and deal with them in person.
- Never accept “free” medical equipment from anyone other than your physician.
- Always purchase drugs from a reputable pharmacy, and inspect the labeling every time.
- When making advance funeral arrangements, shop around for the best deal.
- If it sounds too good to be true, don’t purchase it!
- Don’t be pressured into signing anything.
- Don’t listen to threats from telemarketers. If they are too aggressive or even too friendly, say goodbye and hang up the phone.
- Never give personal or banking information over the phone.
In-home Care Is Another Option
Many seniors rely on their in-home caregivers to handle aggressive telemarketers, help them avoid suspicious people, or just act as a skeptical sounding board. To find an in-home care service that could help protect your loved one, contact us for more information (972) 658-4001.
If you have any questions, please give me a call. My direct number is (972) 658-4001 or contact us.
