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Report Elder Scams and Fraud

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If you or your loved one is the victim of fraud or a scam, report it. You can do so by contacting the FBI or the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) at 1.800.347.3735.

Why Seniors?

Our parents are often the victims of elder scams and fraud because they are living on their own (no children) and have just been introduced to Social Security and Medicare. With regular funds and a lot of new information to learn about how you’re getting your money, it’s easier for people to take advantage. That’s not all however.

The older adult children become, the more their relationship with their elderly parent’s changes. As we age, we undergo a role reversal where our parents need to receive care and advice instead of the other way around. For many elderly parents, this is damaging to their pride and they fear losing their independence. As a result, many or our parents fall victim to elder scams because they want to maintain their self-sufficiency… but can’t.

(No one wants to be a burden. Simply reflect on your own life. Have you ever struggled to simply ask your boss for time off? You don’t want to inconvenience people.)

Similarly, many seniors try to fix their problems on their own. They contact contractors and Medicare representatives. Along the way however, they may fall prey to a scam. The worst part however is that most seniors don’t report it.

It’s embarrassing when you’ve been had; duped; given a run for your money. It’s why fraud and elder scams continue to be a problem, there’s a low risk and high reward. When seniors are living on their own especially, the con- and scam artists of the world rejoice because, in all likelihood, the elder only sees their children around holidays and emergencies. This means the elder is not likely to call up their child and unload their recent losses to them. They want their children to be excited to visit, not feel like their vacation is being squandered by working to provide a safe environment for their parents.

Protect Yourself and Your Elder

If your parent was born in the 1950s or earlier, there’s a fair chance they’re not as computer savvy as you. Tell them you’re open to talking about scams and remind them it’s not a burden. Show them how to text so you can give a ‘once over’ to a company they’re thinking of contacting – to be sure it’s not a scam.

Remind them products and services that promise ‘anti-cancer’ properties and increased ‘cognitive function’ may not be legitimate – there is a lot of fraud in the prescription drug world too!

Finally, remind them to report elder scams and fraud should they fall victim to either. It’ll help prevent fraud for them and their children in the future.

Written by
Concierge Care Advisors

More Articles By
Concierge Care Advisors

Why Choose Us

No Cost for Families

Our services are entirely free for families. We are compensated by the senior living community or retirement community we refer to, allowing us to help all families with this important journey at no cost to them.

Boots on the Ground

We thoroughly vet every community and professional we work with, ensuring you receive the quality service you deserve. We set benchmarks that matter and only partner with professionals and communities that meet our high standards.

Personalized Choice

With personal relationships with over 2,200 senior living communities throughout the State of Washington alone, including assisted living communities, retirement communities, and independent living communities, we provide more than 2,000 senior living options.

White-Glove Service

You and your loved ones are our focus. From the moment we meet until the day your loved one moves in, we’re by your side every step of the way to ensure your family has the support it deserves. It doesn’t stop there either – stay connected for physician-informed guidance and knowledge to ensure your loved one is receiving the quality care they need.

Expertise Backed by Our Physicians Advisory Board

At Concierge Care Advisors, our team of Certified Advisors is enhanced by the insights and expertise of our Physicians Advisory Board. This panel of medical professionals plays a crucial role in shaping our senior care and transition services, ensuring they meet the high standards of quality and care that our brand is known for. With their guidance, we deliver a more comprehensive range of services, benefiting both families and healthcare professionals.

Our Physicians Advisory Board members actively share their knowledge with our community. They regularly contribute to #TheSeniorSpotlight Podcast, where they discuss critical topics in senior care, and publish thought leadership articles on our blog and in industry publications. Learn more about our Physician Advisory Board here

These resources are designed to help seniors and their families make informed decisions about care options, equipping them with knowledge and providing peace of mind regarding senior health and living options. 

Listen to our Physician Advisory Board on #TheSeniorSpotlight Podcast

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