What You Can Do To Protect Seniors
From the National Association of Triads, Inc. and Home Instead Senior Care, the following are ways that family caregivers can protect their senior loved ones:
1. Watch for unusual activity. Seniors who are scammed may be embarrassed and try to hide what happened. Watch for changes in their lifestyle as well as any other unusual financial or business activity.
2. Be on guard for individuals who have befriended your loved one. Lonely or isolated seniors may be vulnerable to con criminals who befriend them and provide them with companionship. Ask to talk to your parent's new friend to find out more about him or her. A thief won't stick around long to chat.
3. Investigate organizations looking for money. Often seniors want to donate to organizations and other worthy causes. Help your loved ones check those out by requesting written information on the organization and reviewing that thoroughly. Or contact the Better Business Bureau.
4. Assist seniors with their finances. If a senior can no longer handle his or her finances, encourage your loved one to put a plan in place that can help ensure bills are paid and his or her assets are protected. That plan may include your senior designating a financial power of attorney.
