How to Help Seniors Prevent Internet Scams

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Tips to Help Seniors Prevent Internet Scams in Montgomery, AL

Internet scams are increasing in number now that criminals view the anonymity offered by online activity as an easy way to take advantage of seniors. There are many types of scams being used today, and many of them are so expertly planned that they can be difficult to detect. For this reason, it’s important for family caregivers to know how to protect their senior loved ones from Internet scams. 

Provide Real-Life Social Opportunities

It’s important to understand that many online scams prey upon susceptibility caused by isolation. For instance, a criminal may pose as a romantic interest on social media to entice a senior to send money. Additionally, seniors who are lonely are more likely to fall for scams online simply because they spend more time browsing the Internet. To prevent your loved one from making bad decisions to keep a friendship, make sure he or she has real-life companions to turn to for socialization. 

For families living in Montgomery, respite care can be a wonderful solution when their aging loved ones need companionship and socialization a few hours a week or just need minor assistance with daily household tasks. At Home Care Assistance, we thrive on helping seniors maintain their independence while living in the comfort of home.

Safeguard Personal Accounts

Seniors who grew up in a time before the Internet may not always understand how easy it is for their accounts to be connected. Help your loved one set up secure accounts for social media and banking, and make sure he or she knows to never share passwords with anyone else. This way, the information will be less likely to be compromised if someone does manage to get into one of the accounts.

Talk about the Different Types of Scams

It seems as if a new type of scam pops up every day. Stay on top of the latest scams to hit the Internet so you can keep your loved one informed. While email requests for funds are a common scam, others may be subtler. For instance, a scammer may send what looks like an official email to your loved one asking for his or her bank account information. Warn your loved one to always call the institution or person referenced in an email to verify a message is true. 

Apart from being susceptible to Internet scams, seniors can face a variety of other challenges as they age. Maintaining a high quality of life can be challenging for some seniors, but professional caregivers can help them attain this goal. Families can trust in-home care experts to help their elderly loved ones focus on lifestyle choices that increase the chances of living longer and healthier lives.

Ask Caregivers to Watch for Signs of Financial Abuse

If your loved one does fall for a scam, address it as soon as possible. Involve all the people who see your loved one regularly. Talk to his or her caregivers and other family members about the risk of Internet scams. Ask others to be on the lookout for warning signs of financial abuse, such as your loved one having difficulty paying bills. This allows you to catch potential scammers before they drain your loved one’s bank account. 

Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Montgomery elder care provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Home Care Assistance is here to help. Whether your parent needs minor help with daily tasks or extensive 24-hour care, give us a call at (334) 593-3988 today. 

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