Avoiding Scams

Home Care in Lexington NC

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Financial scams are some of the most destructive ways criminals target seniors. Seeing them as easy prey for fulfilling their twisted needs causes scam artists to set aside all thought of possible repercussions for the victims as they take an ‘any means necessary’ approach to their task.

Stay Protected
According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), there are some tried and true methods for seniors to protect themselves against such instances of fraud. Some of those tips include:

• Don’t isolate yourself – Staying connected with others who have your best interest at heart will make you less of a target for criminals who are out to steal your money.

• Request solicitation in writing – This allows you an opportunity to deter would-be thieves.

• Use direct deposit – Taking checks out of your mailbox and straight to the bank account eliminates one avenue for your money to be stolen.

You can read more about these tips (and others) by following this link to the NCOA’s article “How Seniors Can Protect Themselves From Money Scams“, which is a quick but informative read that could be the difference between protecting what is yours and losing it to people who are up to no good.

Frauds, Scams, and Financial Abuse–oh My!
Thinking about the schemes of financial criminals can make you feel a little like Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz, traipsing down the yellow brick road but afraid of the danger that can lurk behind every tree in the forest. Life should be more like a fairy tale than a nightmare that makes you want to click your heels three times and return to a simpler time; in a perfect world, seniors wouldn’t be the target of schemes designed to steal their money. Unfortunately, the mere fact that it shouldn’t happen is not protection enough.

If you or someone you love is a senior at risk of being tricked out of your valuable financial resources, here are some helpful “Do’s and Don’ts” for keeping your assets safe and secure.

• DO review all information carefully, even asking someone else to be a second set of eyes, until you understand fully what you are signing.
• DON’T sign anything without reading it first!
• DO keep accurate records of all appointments, financial comings and goings, and insurance benefits.
• DON’T ignore warning signs that something is wrong–again, having someone you trust look over things with you can be hugely beneficial.
• DO protect your credit card, Medicare and other account numbers by keeping them secured in your home and not laying around the house.
• DON’T keep any PIN numbers stored with your account numbers. This is just as dangerous as handing a thief the keys to your car and expecting them not to steal it straight away!
• DO take your time in making decisions; as has already been mentioned here, ask for things in writing and get someone to review the information with you.
• DON’T hesitate to contact local law enforcement if you have any suspicions of fraud, scams, or other financial abuse.
• DO research on other ways you can stay protected. Read this article for more ways you can stay protected and what to do if you’ve already encountered a financial criminal.
• DON’T let yourself be conned. Be prepared!

Knowledge is Power
Being a victim of criminal activity often leaves people with feelings of shame and guilt that cause them to hide the crime and deal with the consequences on their own. They feel embarrassed and foolish; this could not be further from the truth. These criminals are skilled at what they do, making it vitally important that you arm yourself with knowledge that will keep you protected. Your hard-earned money is worth it, and so are you!

TenderHearted Home Care (THHC) is a non-medical, in-home care agency located in Salisbury. THHC provides services to the elderly and disabled/handicapped through companion/sitters (non-hands-on care), Personal Care Attendants (limited physical assistance) and CNAs (extensive physical assistance). 

THHC can offer respite to family caregivers, extend and enhance safely living at home, or bring one-on-one personal care to the senior living in a group facility. 

While THHC cannot replace the love and support of family, our caregivers provide helpful services needed to brighten the day, lighten the workload and ensure peace of mind.

If you or an aging loved one are considering hiring a caregiver contact the caring professionals at TenderHearted Home Care today. Call us at (704) 612-4132.