A Guide for Residents & Families on Protecting Seniors from Scams

At Melody Living Independent Living in Lake in the Hills, we believe peace of mind is one of the greatest gifts of retirement. While living in a safe and supportive community brings comfort, we know that financial scams targeting older adults are on the rise, both over the phone and online.

From fraudulent sweepstakes calls to fake tech support pop-ups, scammers are using increasingly sophisticated tactics to prey on seniors’ trust and goodwill. We’re committed to providing our residents and their families with tools, education, and support to help stop scams before they start.

Common Scams Targeting Older Adults

Understanding the warning signs is the first step to prevention. Here are some of the most common scams seniors face today:

• Grandparent Scam – A caller pretends to be a grandchild in distress, asking for money urgently.
• Medicare/Health Insurance Scams – Fraudsters pose as Medicare representatives requesting personal information.
• Tech Support Scams – Pop-up alerts claim your computer is infected, directing you to call a fake “help desk” for payment.
• Prize or Sweepstakes Scams – A caller claims you’ve won a prize but must pay fees or taxes first.
• Charity Scams – Fake charities request donations, often after natural disasters or during the holidays.

What to Do if You Suspect a Scam

If you or a loved one thinks they may be the target of a scam:

1. Stop Communication – Hang up or stop responding immediately.

2. Do Not Share Information – Never give out Social Security numbers, banking information, or passwords.

3. Document the Interaction – Note the phone number, email address, or website involved.

4. Report It – Contact the local police, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC.gov), or the Illinois Attorney General’s Office.

5. Seek Support – Involve a trusted family member or financial advisor to assess any potential damage.

Approaching the Conversation with Empathy

Discussing scams can be sensitive, especially if a loved one feels embarrassed or defensive. Here’s how to keep the conversation constructive:

• Lead with Care – Start by expressing concern for their safety, not judgment.
• Share Stories – Use examples of widespread scams to normalize the experience.
• Empower, Don’t Lecture – Offer tools and strategies rather than focusing solely on mistakes.

Prevention Tools & Legal Safeguards

Families can take proactive steps to protect seniors from fraud:

• Call-Blocking Services – Use tools like Nomorobo, Robokiller, or your phone carrier’s scam-blocking features.
• Financial Alerts – Set up notifications for large or unusual transactions.
• Legal Protections – Consider adding a trusted contact to financial accounts or establishing a Power of Attorney for oversight.
• Secure Passwords – Encourage the use of strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication.

Reducing Vulnerability to Future Scams

Long-term scam prevention often comes down to building a trusted circle and strong daily habits:

• Join Educational Programs – Melody Living regularly offers Life Enrichment events that include safety and fraud prevention workshops.
• Stay Connected – Social isolation can make seniors more vulnerable. Regular check-ins from friends, family, and staff help spot unusual behavior early.
• Use Community Resources – Our 24/7 concierge, transportation services, and supportive staff are always here to help verify questionable requests or communications.

Your Safety is Part of Our Life in Harmony™

At Melody Living Lake in the Hills, our community offers more than beautiful apartments and engaging programs; it offers peace of mind. Our collaborative care reviews, conducted monthly by every department, ensure we’re always tuned in to residents’ evolving needs, whether it’s nutrition, mobility, or emotional wellness. No detail is too small when it comes to helping you thrive.

Call us today at (847) 957-7070 or visit our contact page to schedule your tour.

Your Best Life Begins Here.