How to Help an Older Person Avoid Being Scammed

As our loved ones grow older, they can become more vulnerable to financial scams, fraud and exploitation. Criminals often target older adults because they may be more trusting, less familiar with new technologies or living alone. These factors can increase the risk of falling victim to a scam. Unfortunately, the emotional and financial consequences can be devastating.

Helping an older person avoid being scammed requires empathy, patience and open communication. With the right guidance and support, you can help your loved one stay safe while preserving their independence.

In this article, we explore common scams targeting older adults, signs that your loved one may have been targeted and practical ways to protect them without undermining their confidence or autonomy.

Common scams that target older adults

Older adults are often targeted by scammers through a variety of methods. These are some of the most common:

1. Phone scams
   Fraudsters may impersonate a bank, utility company or even a family member in distress. These callers often use urgency or fear to pressure someone into revealing personal information or transferring money.
2. Email and text message scams (phishing)
   Scammers send messages that look like they’re from a trusted source, such as a bank, HMRC or well-known company, asking the recipient to click a link or provide sensitive details.
3. Investment or pension fraud
   Older adults may be targeted with “too good to be true” investment opportunities or fake pension schemes, often promising high returns or urgent deadlines to act fast.
4. Romance scams
   Loneliness can make older adults especially vulnerable to romance scams. A fraudster may build a relationship over time before asking for money, often claiming to be in trouble or needing travel funds.
5. Doorstep scams
   Someone might come to the door offering unnecessary services, like roofing or driveway repairs, or selling fake goods. These scams can be especially persuasive for people living alone.
6. Lottery and prize scams
   Letters, emails or phone calls may claim the recipient has won a prize, but must first pay a fee or provide bank details to claim it. No real prize ever arrives.

Signs your loved one may have been targeted

Not everyone feels comfortable admitting they’ve been scammed. Look out for subtle changes that might indicate something is wrong:

• Unexplained bank withdrawals or financial activity
• Bills going unpaid despite having funds
• Sudden secrecy or anxiety about finances
• Unusual or increased phone use
• Receiving large amounts of junk mail
• A newfound “friend” or online relationship
• Items or money missing from the home
• Reluctance to talk about certain phone calls or letters

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to talk openly and without judgment. Shame can be a major barrier to disclosure, so reassure your loved one that anyone can fall for a scam, and you’re there to help, not blame.

How to talk about scams with compassion

Talking about scams can be a sensitive subject. You want to protect your loved one without making them feel incapable or embarrassed.

Here are some ways to open up the conversation:

Start with empathy: Say something like: “There are so many clever scams out there now, anyone could fall for them. I just want to help keep you safe.”

Keep it collaborative: Use “we” language, such as: “Let’s look at ways we can protect your details together,” or “We can check that everything is secure with your bank.”

Avoid scare tactics: Rather than focusing on horror stories, offer practical tips and share simple examples they can relate to.

Empower them: Make it clear that learning how to spot scams puts them in control, not at risk. Focus on prevention and confidence.

Respect their independence: If they’re not ready to accept help, offer resources or suggest revisiting the conversation later. Being patient makes a big difference.

Practical steps to protect your loved one

1. Help them register with the Telephone Preference Service (TPS)
   This reduces unwanted sales and marketing calls.
2. Encourage call screening or use of a call blocker
   Devices that screen or block unknown numbers can prevent scam calls from getting through.
3. Set up email filters and security software
   Check that their computer or smartphone is protected and explain how to spot phishing attempts.
4. Review bank statements together
   Suggest going through statements now and then to spot anything unusual, without making it feel like a check-up.
5. Educate about online security
   Remind them never to share personal information, click on suspicious links or send money to someone they haven’t met in person.
6. Keep important documents safe
   Help them organise paperwork and store sensitive information securely.
7. Encourage reporting
   If they’ve been scammed or suspect something isn’t right, encourage them to report it to Action Fraud or their bank. Reassure them that support is available and it’s never too late to speak up.

How can home care help?

At Trinity Homecare, we understand that helping a loved one avoid scams is part of supporting their overall well-being. Our carers don’t just assist with practical tasks, they provide companionship, conversation and an extra layer of awareness.

With regular visits, our team can spot changes in behaviour, help monitor for signs of suspicious activity and support your loved one in staying safe and confident at home. We’re here to offer peace of mind for both you and your family member.

Talk to us today

At Trinity Homecare, our goal is to enrich lives with compassionate, tailored care in the comfort of home. Whether your loved one needs companionship, practical support or help navigating day-to-day challenges, we’re here to help.

Call us today on 020 4572 5608 for a confidential, no-obligation chat. If you’re getting in touch outside our opening hours, simply complete our online form and we’ll contact you the next working day.