The risk of becoming susceptible to crime increases with age, and criminals sometimes take advantage of a senior’s trusting nature for their own financial gain. Cybercrime, identity theft, and home burglaries are some of the most common crimes committed against aging adults. For this reason, seniors should know a few strategies that deter crime.
1. Protect Private Information Online
Social media helps seniors connect with their loved ones. However, it’s important to make sure strangers aren’t able to see private information. Seniors should set their privacy settings to the highest level and be cautious about discussing things such as vacations before their homes are left unattended.
Seniors with serious health conditions can also use social media to search online support groups and communities. If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of home care San Diego families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
2. Verify Contact with Financial Institutions
A common phone scam used to target seniors involves a criminal calling and posing as a bank employee or an IRS official to obtain personal information. Financial institutions or the government won’t ask for personal information such as a social security number over the phone, and a bank will already have a senior’s account information.
If a caller asks for personally identifiable information, the senior should hang up and call his or her financial institution directly to verify if it’s real. A similar tactic can be used through email, so seniors should be wary of requests for personal information online.
3. Create an Active Household Environment
Burglars often watch neighborhoods to see which houses are left alone for long periods. To prevent theft and burglaries, seniors should make their homes look as busy as possible.
4. Set Up an Automated Home Security System
Moments of forgetfulness can leave seniors vulnerable to crime. Seniors should consider installing automated home security systems that allow them to lock the doors using a smartphone app before leaving their homes. Security cameras are also a wonderful deterrent for crime, and family members can use these types of systems to check on their senior loved ones remotely. Seniors can also use home security apps to check their front doors before opening them.
Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional around-the-clock in-home care San Diego, CA, seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated caregiver.
5. Hire Trusted Caregivers
Some seniors are targeted by people they know. Seniors should only be left alone with trusted relatives or caregivers. A reputable caregiver can look for signs of criminal activity, such as a new friend suddenly asking for money or a strange phone call asking for personal information. With trustworthy caregivers in place, seniors can keep crime at bay. Though you may be researching multiple agencies that provide elder care, Assisting Hands Home Care has much to offer your family and your elderly loved one. We are leaders in the senior home care industry, offering hourly and around-the-clock assistance from reliable, experienced caregivers. Trust Assisting Hands Home Care to help your loved one enjoy a happier and healthier life in the golden years. Reach out to one of our Care Managers today.
