An elderly couple in Wisconsin became the victims of a scam that ended up costing them more than $1,000. If your parents live alone, you need to share this story and make sure they know to never let anyone into their home without asking a lot of questions.How the Con Worked
The couple, both in their 80s, live near the site where the new Foxconn plant is being built. They'd noticed the work going on along their street. Water lines were being worked on. When a man wearing an outfit that suggested he was part of the company knocked on their door, they felt he was legitimate.
He explained that while working on the water system, they'd hit a line and needed to check the couple's water pressure. Though they had a private well system and thought it weird, they didn't question him. They allowed him inside.
Soon two other men, supposedly also from Foxconn, came in. When they left about 15 minutes later, the couple never suspected a thing. Hours later, they discovered jewelry and almost $1,000 in cash had been stolen from their bedroom.
Always Ask Questions
Make sure your parents know to ask questions. If someone comes to the door, they can ask the person to wait while they verify the story. Make sure they know to shut and lock the door while they call authorities and see if work is ongoing in their area. You don't want them hurt, so they need to keep the person outside and lock doors immediately.
If the story is legitimate, they should still ask to see ID. They also need to stay by that person while things within their home get checked out. If the story is false, they need to ask for an officer to come to their home. Odds are that the person will have fled, but there is a chance police can catch him or her before they leave the neighborhood.
Keeping Your Parents Safe
If you're worried about your mom and dad's safety when you're not there, consider installing a video doorbell. If someone comes to their door, you can see who it is on your smartphone. You'll be able to ask questions without actually being there.
Hire a caregiver. Elder care services help your mom and dad with activities of daily living. It also pairs your parents with a caregiver for companionship and to prevent loneliness. Learn more about the services and rates by calling an elder care agency.
IF YOU OR AN AGING LOVED ONE ARE CONSIDERING HIRING IN-HOME ELDER CARE IN GOLD COAST, IL, PLEASE CONTACT THE CARING STAFF AT BRIGHTSTAR CARE CHICAGO. CALL TODAY: 312.382.8888.