Paying attention to clues that something's wrong with an elderly friend or relative can pay off. The trick is to recognize the clues when they appear and act fast.
Which signals should you be on the alert for? While these changes don't always mean something sinister is happening, they can be an indication.
Look for:· An unexplained change for the worse in the person's standard of living
· A marked difference in personality or habits that coincide with the arrival of a new friend, romantic interest, caretaker or even a relative
· Changes in long-standing financial arrangements, such as a new will or cashed CDs
· Forged documents
· Signs the person isn't well-cared for, including changes in health, personal hygiene, eating habits or surroundings
· Unexplained charges on credit cards or withdrawals from bank accounts
· The disappearance of jewelry or other valuable items
· Substandard or unneeded services, such as unnecessary home repairs
Scams targeting seniors can range from the simply ridiculous to the sublimely complicated. Experts say the best way to keep thieves and con men out of grandma's pocketbook is to know what's out there.
Back to: "
Top Scams Targeting the Elderly"
Avoid unpleasant surprises.