Many older adults are vulnerable to scams. There are a variety of reasons why:
1. Availability: Seniors are seen as a target because they are retired and less mobile, and at home for the calls. Scam artists can troll for victims because they can call or drop by.
2. Isolation: Seniors are often alone because families move away and sometimes have little or no interaction with loved ones. Some seniors don’t have others to help review large decisions.
3. Loneliness: Because of their isolation, seniors’ friendships often can be limited, and this can make them vulnerable to that friendly cold caller who drops by the house. Some scams are even perpetrated by seemingly trusted people who work to build new friendships with older adults and then prey on their vulnerabilities.
4. Sickness: Chronic health issues mean that many older adults have difficulty maintaining their property. Scam artists know that. A senior may rely on outside sources for help. Unscrupulous workers can bilk seniors out of thousands of dollars for a job that should only cost hundreds of dollars. Dementia can exacerbate the problem.
5. Prosperity: Money is one of the most notable reasons for senior vulnerability. Scammers see them as a supply of wealth that includes homes, property, life savings and other assets.
Fraud is a form of elder abuse. If you have a senior loved one you may want to sit down and talk about scammers, there are many stories and tools at ProtectSeniorsFromFraud.com.
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