The rise of predatory scams—and how to prevent them

14 min Source: TED TALK
PME All levels

BLUF

This article examines some of the scams used against older people by criminals who have gained the trust of their potential victims.

Summary

Elder abuse is growing but sometimes remains hidden because of:

  • Relationships between perpetrator and victim

  • Instinctive fear of admitting to impairment (executive functioning for complex tasks starts to decline usually over 60)

  • Elderly dignity and self-respect.

Elder abuse can come in these forms:

Financial crimes against seniors are commonly perpetrated through: 

The following strategies can be used to support people.

  • Reach out to family and friends, as they often have some idea of what's going on.

  • Install doorbell cameras.

  • Help out with the paperwork. 

Worth noting the following references: