Most often, older adults find themselves on the receiving end of attempted scams and get-quick-rich schemes. Linked with today's technology, the reasons for being security conscious and Internet savvy increases.
As the number of older adults logging on to the Internet continues to grow, seniors who suddenly find themselves alone are opting for on-line socialization. Unlike meeting someone in person, you don't know who you're communicating with and should be cautious about volunteering personal information at the onset.
There are a lot of fake websites out there, so research the site until you're comfortable that it's legitimate. Whether you're socializing, shopping or just browsing, some sites will ask for a phone number, street address, e-mail address and even your social security number before allowing you access. Protect yourself by entering fake information unless you're sure you're entering a legitimate site. As long as the entries are filled in, you'll be allowed access. Use the same caution with your e-mail account. If you don't recognize the sender, delete the e-mail, without opening it. Solicitations can contain headers like "Your bank statement is ready."
Many department stores do random surveys by asking for your phone number and e-mail address at the checkout. This is information you may not want to share, especially if there's a line of people behind you. It's not rude to say "I prefer not to give that information" and the salesperson will understand.
Security at home will cost you the price of a small shredder. Throwing away papers showing personal information can provide accessibility to your address, social security number, birth date, etc. Include labels from prescription bottles and solicitation letters from banks, insurance companies, credit card companies, etc. in your pile of shreds.
Residents in nursing homes are not immune from attempts to con them. Not too long ago, a young woman called a resident in the nursing home. Claiming to be her granddaughter, she said her car had broken down in another state; please forward money to get home. After investigating on the resident's behalf, we were able to determine that the call was not from a family member, but was an attempt to get money. Our next step was to contact the district attorney's office. While this was a rare occurrence, nursing homes should have safeguards in place to protect the resident. Asking questions during the admission process will help you determine how far the facility's security measures extend.
Remember, if it sounds too good to be true or sounds unusual, it is. Never send money anywhere based on a phone call and always verify by calling your friends and family first.
"Sensible Seniors" is a monthly column for and about older adults. The information in "Sensible Seniors" is provided by the staff of Mountain View: A Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, Coal Township.