Protecting Seniors from Elder Fraud: Tips for Prevention in Milford and Framingham

As we age, the need for security doesn’t stop at locking doors or setting up a home alarm system—it extends to financial and personal safety as well. Elder fraud is an ever-growing concern in the U.S., with scammers often targeting older adults who may be more trusting, less tech-savvy, or unfamiliar with the latest scam tactics.

For families in Milford and Framingham, taking proactive steps to prevent elder fraud is essential. Whether your loved one lives independently or receives home care, education and vigilance are the best defenses against fraud.

In this blog, we’ll cover the most common types of scams targeting seniors, practical ways to protect your loved ones, and how BrightStar Care of Milford-Framingham(Opens in a new window) can provide additional support to ensure their safety and peace of mind. 

Understanding Elder Fraud: Common Scams to Watch Out For

Elder fraud encompasses a wide range of schemes designed to exploit older adults. Here are some of the most common scams seniors face:

1. Imposter Scams

Scammers pretend to be trusted individuals, such as government officials, law enforcement, or even family members. For example, a scammer may call claiming to be from the IRS, threatening legal action if a "debt" isn’t paid immediately.

2. Tech Support Scams

In this scam, fraudsters pose as tech support representatives, claiming there’s an issue with the senior’s computer or internet service. They trick the victim into providing remote access or paying for fake services.

3. Medicare or Health Insurance Scams

Scammers might pretend to be from Medicare, asking for personal information or billing seniors for services they didn’t receive.

4. Prize or Lottery Scams

Fraudsters inform victims that they’ve won a lottery or sweepstakes—but to claim the prize, they must pay upfront fees or taxes. Spoiler alert: there’s no prize.

5. Romance Scams

Seniors using online dating platforms can be targeted by scammers who feign romantic interest, gradually building trust before requesting money for an “emergency.”

6. Grandparent Scams

In these heart-wrenching scams, fraudsters pretend to be a grandchild in trouble, asking for money to pay for bail, medical expenses, or other urgent needs.

How to Protect Seniors from Elder Fraud

While elder fraud is pervasive, there are proactive steps families can take to protect their loved ones:

1. Educate About Scams

Awareness is the first line of defense. Talk to your loved one about common scams, especially those targeting seniors. Remind them to verify the identity of anyone requesting money or personal information.

2. Encourage Safe Online Practices

• Use strong, unique passwords for accounts.
• Avoid clicking on unfamiliar links or downloading attachments from unknown senders.
• Set up privacy settings on social media accounts to limit access to personal information.

3. Monitor Financial Activity

Keep an eye on your loved one’s bank accounts, credit card statements, and credit reports for unusual transactions. Consider setting up alerts for large or unusual purchases.

4. Limit Personal Information Sharing

Seniors should be cautious about sharing their Social Security number, Medicare number, or other sensitive details over the phone or online.

5. Sign Up for the Do Not Call Registry

This reduces unwanted telemarketing calls, which are often used to initiate scams. Seniors in Milford and Framingham can visit donotcall.gov to register their number.

6. Encourage Open Communication

Many seniors feel embarrassed or ashamed if they fall victim to a scam. Reassure your loved one that they can always come to you for help, no matter the situation.

7. Install Caller ID and Call Screening Services

These tools make it easier to identify and avoid suspicious calls.

How BrightStar Care of Milford-Framingham Can Help(Opens in a new window)

At BrightStar Care of Milford-Framingham, we understand that caregiving goes beyond physical support—it includes safeguarding our clients’ well-being, including their financial and personal safety. Our caregivers are trained to spot red flags and support families in protecting their loved ones.

Here’s how we help:

1. Companionship and Oversight

Scammers often target individuals who are isolated. BrightStar Care’s compassionate caregivers provide meaningful companionship, reducing loneliness and ensuring someone is always there to help monitor for suspicious activity.

2. Safe Technology Practices

Our caregivers can assist seniors with technology, ensuring they use it safely and helping them identify potential scams in emails, phone calls, or online interactions.

3. Trusted Relationships

We build trusting relationships with our clients, creating a safe space for them to share concerns. If a caregiver notices anything suspicious, such as an unusual phone call or a sudden financial decision, they alert family members immediately.

4. Support for Daily Living

By assisting with errands, bill payments, and household tasks, we reduce opportunities for scammers to exploit seniors.

5. Tailored Care Plans

We customize our services to address the unique needs of each client, whether they require personal care, mobility assistance, or simply someone to look out for their safety.

BrightStar Care is accredited by The Joint Commission, reflecting our dedication to providing the highest standard of care. Families in Milford and Framingham trust us to protect their loved ones’ safety and dignity.

Elder fraud is a growing concern, but families and caregivers can work together to protect seniors from becoming victims. By staying informed, maintaining open communication, and providing support, you can safeguard your loved one’s financial and emotional well-being.

At BrightStar Care of Milford-Framingham, we’re here to provide peace of mind for families and exceptional care for their loved ones. If you’re looking for professional home care services that prioritize safety, independence, and quality of life, contact us today to learn more. Together, we can help ensure your loved one’s golden years remain secure and fulfilling.

BrightStar Care^® is Here to Help

At BrightStar Care^® of Milford-Framingham, we offer a wide range of home care and medical staffing services that enrich the quality of life for those who need care from the comfort of their home. We strive to provide the full continuum of care to our community while keeping our focus on offering a higher standard of care. Offering unparalleled support for our local healthcare system while providing a variety of high-quality, compassionate care, we work to give our clients the best lives possible while also strengthening the broader community. Contact us through our website or call 508.422.4034, so that we can help you find the right support to fit your unique needs.