Elder Care Sanibel FL: Senior Scams
Your dad knows how to check caller ID before answering the phone. That’s not enough to keep him safe from scammers anymore. Scammers are using three tricks to get people to answer the phone. Make sure your dad knows about these scams.
Repeated Single Rings
Using autodialers, some spammers will call a number repeatedly. They let the phone ring once or twice and then hang up, wait a few seconds, and call again. They continue this until the caller gets sick of it and hits redial.
Many of these calls originate in foreign countries. When you do call back, you’re looking at international rates. What many callers don’t know is that the company is set up to charge you a hefty fee for each minute you stay on the line. They’ll put you on hold for minutes before connecting you with a live person who then does everything possible to keep you on the phone while the phone charges rack up.
Calls From Your Own Number
Using a method known as spoofing, some scammers are making calls look like they’re coming from the homeowner’s number. Your dad looks at the caller ID, sees his phone number, and is curious how his phone can be calling itself. He picks up.
Once he’s on the line, the scam begins. Your dad may hang up, but he may get drawn into the scammer’s speech and end up buying something he doesn’t need or give away information he should be keeping private.
Calls From a Local Business
Calls from a local business are another spoofing technique used by scammers. Your dad’s phone rings, he looks at his caller ID, and he sees a local store is calling. He answers wondering what they want. It’s not the store at all. It’s the scammer who now has your dad’s attention.
Keep Your Dad Safe
One of the leading reasons seniors fall for scams is the desire to have someone to talk to. If your dad is lonely, he’s more likely to listen to what a scammer has to say. That’s why it’s so important to make sure your dad doesn’t answer the phone.
You should look into spam call blockers like TrueCaller. You should also make sure your dad has ample opportunities to socialize with others. One way to do this is by hiring a home care professional.
Once a week, a few times a week, or every day, a caregiver can spend time with your dad. Your dad can get a ride to the senior care center, join his caregiver on a walk, or enjoy a casual chat while doing a puzzle. Learn more about home care services by calling an agency near you.
If you or an aging loved-one are considering Elder Care in Sanibel FL, please contact the caring staff at Touched by An Angel Senior Care today. Call 239-215-8803 today.
About Toya Simmons, Owner and Founder
I know first hand that finding the right home care provider is not an easy task and can be overwhelming. I know the obstacles you face, having to watch a loved one struggle with day to day activities. I have always been passionate about helping and serving others. Being in the medical field and having over 19+ years experience in various settings, I understand that you have to be compassionate, have patience and understanding with this type of business. My vision is to raise the bar in-home care by focusing on the quality of care that we provide and to make life easier for the families and clients that we serve. When our clients are able to receive quality and reliable care at home they’re going to be happier, healthier, and safer there. It is a blessing to serve others and to make a difference in someone’s life, the smallest thing could mean so much to them in the long term.
I’m very involved and oversee the daily operations of this business from administration, the hiring process, training of caregivers, client relations, community outreach and creating customized care plans. Our hiring and training process is extensive, I’m committed to having only “the best” caregivers on our team. I want our caregivers to serve our clients with love and compassion, be actively engaged, and make every effort to improve the daily lives of our clients-physically, emotionally and intellectually. Our caregivers must possess the necessary heart, spirit, energy and personality for this position. My staff makes aging a less complicated process for you and your family. We’re dedicated to helping our clients remain where they want to be the most-at home.
When I’m not in the office my personal time is spent with my family, listening to worship music, cooking, reading and helping others.
