Call Your Grandma

Today is my Grandma's birthday so I gave her a call earlier this evening. We sang happy birthday to her and she proceeded to tell me about her busy day. An orchid show, a trip to a candy factory and lunch with her sister..all very grandmotherly things to do. She was very happy to hear from me and very open with what she has been doing. I, of course, introduced myself at the beginning of the conversation but there is a scheme going around called Grandparent Scams that preys upon the elderly and their friendliness and often, lonliness.

Theives call a random phone number and hope to hear an elderly voice on the other end. If they reach their target, they start into a normal "how's it going" conversation and bombard your loved one with information and stories. This builds a comfort level with the senior and often makes them forget that the caller forgot to introduce themselves. After a few minutes of small talk, the thief begins their pitch. They tell made-up stories of hardship and how if they had a little money they would be able to turn the corner and set things straight. They often add the line, "please don't tell mom or dad or anyone else as I don't want them to know" to assure anonymity. When your confused loved one agrees to send some money, they send them a set delivery address and never call again.

Don't let your loved one be vicitmized by this scam. Though this may sound like a far fetched scam to those of us who are of good mind, an eldely person's cognitive senses can be muddled and confused. As a caregiver, let your parent know to watch out for theives like these as not all callers are phoning to wish you a Happy Birthday.