{"id":14815,"date":"2026-06-15T08:00:31","date_gmt":"2026-06-15T08:00:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/?p=14815"},"modified":"2026-06-18T19:57:40","modified_gmt":"2026-06-18T19:57:40","slug":"westerville-senior-scam-prevention-protect-loved-ones","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/resources\/westerville-senior-scam-prevention-protect-loved-ones\/","title":{"rendered":"Senior Scams: How to Recognize the Warning Signs and Protect Your Loved One in Westerville, OH"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scams aimed at older adults aren\u2019t just annoying, they\u2019re heartbreaking and costly. In Westerville, OH, many families are shocked to discover that a polite phone call, a friendly email, or a \u201ctoo good to be true\u201d sweepstakes has emptied a loved one\u2019s savings or shaken their confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The tricky part? <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/resources\/protecting-seniors-from-scams-2020\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Scammers know exactly how to push buttons<\/a>, stir up fear, and sound believable. Yet there\u2019s good news: with solid information, a bit of skepticism, and a strong support system, we can spot the red flags early and help keep the seniors we love safe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At Always Best Care of Westerville, OH, we walk alongside families every day, helping them recognize senior scams and respond before real damage is done.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>What you will learn:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Why seniors in Westerville are frequently targeted by scammers, and which common scams to watch for.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The key warning signs that suggest a phone call, email, text, or offer may be a scam.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Simple, loving ways families and in-home caregivers can work together to prevent scams and support seniors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>What steps to take, and how to respond calmly and kindly, if you suspect your loved one has been targeted or victimized.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_36 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"display: none;\"><label for=\"item\" aria-label=\"Table of Content\"><span style=\"display: flex;align-items: center;width: 35px;height: 30px;justify-content: center;\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"item\"><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/resources\/westerville-senior-scam-prevention-protect-loved-ones\/#Why_Are_Seniors_in_Westerville_OH_So_Often_Targeted\" title=\"Why Are Seniors in Westerville, OH So Often Targeted?\">Why Are Seniors in Westerville, OH So Often Targeted?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/resources\/westerville-senior-scam-prevention-protect-loved-ones\/#Common_Senior_Scams_Youll_See_in_Westerville_OH\" title=\"Common Senior Scams You\u2019ll See in Westerville, OH\">Common Senior Scams You\u2019ll See in Westerville, OH<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/resources\/westerville-senior-scam-prevention-protect-loved-ones\/#Warning_Signs_of_a_Senior_Scam\" title=\"Warning Signs of a Senior Scam\">Warning Signs of a Senior Scam<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/resources\/westerville-senior-scam-prevention-protect-loved-ones\/#How_Families_in_Westerville_OH_Can_Help_Protect_Loved_Ones\" title=\"How Families in Westerville, OH Can Help Protect Loved Ones\">How Families in Westerville, OH Can Help Protect Loved Ones<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/resources\/westerville-senior-scam-prevention-protect-loved-ones\/#The_Role_of_In-Home_Care_in_Preventing_Senior_Scams\" title=\"The Role of In-Home Care in Preventing Senior Scams\">The Role of In-Home Care in Preventing Senior Scams<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/resources\/westerville-senior-scam-prevention-protect-loved-ones\/#What_Should_You_Do_If_You_Suspect_a_Scam\" title=\"What Should You Do If You Suspect a Scam?\">What Should You Do If You Suspect a Scam?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/resources\/westerville-senior-scam-prevention-protect-loved-ones\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" title=\"Frequently Asked Questions\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/resources\/westerville-senior-scam-prevention-protect-loved-ones\/#Protecting_Seniors_in_Westerville_Starts_with_Awareness\" title=\"Protecting Seniors in Westerville Starts with Awareness\">Protecting Seniors in Westerville Starts with Awareness<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Are_Seniors_in_Westerville_OH_So_Often_Targeted\"><\/span><strong>Why Are Seniors in Westerville, OH So Often Targeted?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers are calculated. They choose targets they believe will be easier to sway. Many older adults:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Are naturally trusting and polite<\/strong>, even when something feels \u201coff\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Have retirement savings, home equity, or a steady income<\/strong> that fraudsters want to tap into<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Live alone or feel isolated<\/strong>, making them more likely to chat with a stranger<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Didn\u2019t grow up with digital technology<\/strong>, so online or text scams can be harder to spot<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Put all that together, and it\u2019s easier for a scammer to build false trust and twist situations to their advantage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-3-1024x569.jpeg\" alt=\"Worried older man on the phone, examining a bank card while questioning a suspicious call.\n\" class=\"wp-image-14816\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-3-1024x569.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-3-300x167.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-3-768x427.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-3.jpeg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_Senior_Scams_Youll_See_in_Westerville_OH\"><\/span><strong>Common Senior Scams You\u2019ll See in Westerville, OH<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/resources\/how-seniors-spot-scams-westerville-oh\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Scams come in many flavors<\/a>, but the playbook doesn\u2019t change much. Recognizing the patterns is half the battle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Phone Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A caller may claim to be:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A <strong>government agent<\/strong> (IRS, Social Security, Medicare)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A <strong>utility company representative<\/strong> threatening to shut off power or water<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A <strong>grandchild or relative in trouble<\/strong>, begging for money and secrecy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They lean hard on urgency: \u201cIf you don\u2019t pay now, there\u2019ll be serious consequences.\u201d That pressure is a huge red flag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Email, Text, and Phishing Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Messages may look like they come from:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Banks or credit unions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insurance or healthcare providers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Popular stores or delivery services<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They often:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Ask you to <strong>click a link<\/strong> and \u201clog in\u201d<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Request <strong>personal info<\/strong> like Social Security numbers or account details<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Claim there\u2019s a \u201cproblem\u201d with an account that needs immediate attention<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Behind the scenes, those links lead to fake websites designed to steal personal data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-7-1024x569.jpeg\" alt=\"Stressed older woman talking on the phone in front of a laptop, reacting to a possible fraud attempt.\n\" class=\"wp-image-14820\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-7-1024x569.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-7-300x167.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-7-768x427.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-7.jpeg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Sweepstakes and Lottery Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cCongratulations! You\u2019ve won!\u201d sounds exciting, until the catch appears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Typical signs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You \u201cwon\u201d a prize you never entered for<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You\u2019re told to <strong>pay taxes, fees, or handling costs<\/strong> upfront<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The caller or email insists the prize is guaranteed, but only if you act now<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In reality, there\u2019s no prize at all, just money flowing out, never in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Romance Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Online friendships can be lovely\u2026until someone starts asking for money. <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/resources\/protecting-seniors-from-fraud\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Romance scammers<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Build a <strong>slow, emotional connection<\/strong> over weeks or months<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Claim to care deeply, even if you\u2019ve never met in person<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Suddenly face an \u201cemergency\u201d and ask for <strong>money, gift cards, or wire transfers<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The story changes, but the pattern doesn\u2019t: emotional bond first, money request second.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-4-1024x569.jpeg\" alt=\"Shocked senior woman sitting on a sofa, reading a troubling message on her smartphone.\" class=\"wp-image-14817\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-4-1024x569.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-4-300x167.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-4-768x427.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-4.jpeg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Tech Support Scams<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These scams prey on the fear of computers and phones \u201cbreaking.\u201d A scammer might:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Call out of the blue, saying they\u2019re from \u201cMicrosoft\u201d or another big company<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Use a pop-up that says the computer is infected<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ask for <strong>remote access<\/strong> or a <strong>credit card<\/strong> to \u201cfix\u201d the problem<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once inside the computer, they may steal information or install harmful software.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Warning_Signs_of_a_Senior_Scam\"><\/span><strong>Warning Signs of a Senior Scam<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/resources\/identity-theft-prevention-recovery\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Most scams share a few classic warning signs<\/a>. If you notice these with a loved one, it\u2019s time to hit pause.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Look out for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Demands for immediate payment<\/strong> or a \u201cdo this right now\u201d attitude<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Requests for payment by <strong>gift cards, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Unsolicited calls, emails, or texts<\/strong> asking for personal or financial information<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Messages that use <strong>fear, panic, shame, or secrecy<\/strong> to get a quick reaction<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Requests to <strong>keep the conversation secret<\/strong> from family or friends<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If something feels off, it\u2019s absolutely okay to hang up, delete the message, or say, \u201cI\u2019ll check with my family and call back.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Families_in_Westerville_OH_Can_Help_Protect_Loved_Ones\"><\/span><strong>How Families in Westerville, OH Can Help Protect Loved Ones<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We all play a role in scam prevention. A few simple habits can make a world of difference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Consider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Talk openly about scams<\/strong><br>Keep the topic casual, not scary. Share news stories, examples, or \u201cWhat would you do if\u2026?\u201d questions.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Practice \u201cverify before you act\u201d<\/strong><br>Encourage your loved one to call the company using a trusted number, not the one in the message.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Check financial statements regularly<\/strong><br>Watch for small, strange transactions; they can be test charges before bigger hits.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Set up call blocking and email filters<\/strong><br>Reducing the number of suspicious calls and emails can lower risk and stress.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Agree on a family rule<\/strong><br>For example: \u201cBefore you send money, sign anything, or share personal info, call us first.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Creating a judgment-free zone, where seniors feel safe saying, \u201cThis seems weird; what do you think?\u201d, goes a long way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-5-1024x569.jpeg\" alt=\"Senior woman and supportive caregiver sitting at a table, happily looking at a laptop screen together.\n\" class=\"wp-image-14818\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-5-1024x569.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-5-300x167.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-5-768x427.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-5.jpeg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_Role_of_In-Home_Care_in_Preventing_Senior_Scams\"><\/span><strong>The Role of In-Home Care in Preventing Senior Scams<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Having another trusted person in the home isn\u2019t just about practical help; it\u2019s also about another set of eyes and ears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At <strong>Always Best Care of Westerville, OH<\/strong>, we take scam awareness seriously. We:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Help screen phone calls and visitors<\/strong><br>Caregivers can answer the phone, ask questions, and gently end suspicious conversations.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Notice changes in behavior or money worries<\/strong><br>A sudden fear of bills, new \u201cfriends\u201d calling, or secretive behavior can tip us off that something\u2019s wrong.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Provide companionship<\/strong><br>Scammers often seek out people who feel lonely. Regular visits reduce isolation and the desire to chat with random callers.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Encourage family communication<\/strong><br>We can keep you updated on anything that seems off, so you\u2019re in the loop quickly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We view scam prevention as part of helping seniors feel safe, respected, and confident at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Should_You_Do_If_You_Suspect_a_Scam\"><\/span><strong>What Should You Do If You Suspect a Scam?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you think a loved one in Westerville, OH has been targeted, or may already be a victim, don\u2019t panic, but don\u2019t wait, either.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s a basic step-by-step approach:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/resources\/senior-behavioral-health-westerville-emotional-well-being-support\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Stay calm and supportive<\/strong><br><\/a>Avoid blame. Shame can shut down the conversation.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Contact the bank or credit card company right away<\/strong><br>Ask them to freeze or flag accounts and review recent transactions.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Report the scam<\/strong><br>Reach out to local law enforcement or adult protective services to document the situation.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Watch accounts closely<\/strong><br>Check statements regularly for additional suspicious charges or new accounts.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Review safety steps together<\/strong><br>Talk through what happened, what to watch for next time, and who to call before acting in the future.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many older adults feel embarrassed and may try to hide what happened. A calm, caring response makes it easier for them to speak up earlier next time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"569\" src=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-6-1024x569.jpeg\" alt=\"Happy senior woman sitting with a caring companion, smiling while looking at a tablet together at home.\n\" class=\"wp-image-14819\" srcset=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-6-1024x569.jpeg 1024w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-6-300x167.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-6-768x427.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/image-6.jpeg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: How can we talk about scams without scaring our loved ones?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: Keep the tone relaxed and practical. Use real-life stories, focus on \u201cLet\u2019s keep you one step ahead of these crooks,\u201d and reassure them that anyone can be targeted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: What\u2019s the safest rule about sharing personal information?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: As a general rule, don\u2019t share Social Security numbers, banking details, or Medicare numbers over the phone or by email unless your loved one called a verified number or logged into a known, secure website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: Are all unexpected calls bad news?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: Not necessarily, but it\u2019s smart to be cautious. If the caller asks for money, personal information, or immediate action, hang up and call the company or agency using a trusted number.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Q: How can Always Best Care of Westerville, OH help with scam prevention?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A: We help by screening calls, noting unusual behavior, offering companionship, and keeping you updated on anything that doesn\u2019t sit right. We work with families to build simple, practical routines that make scams easier to spot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Protecting_Seniors_in_Westerville_Starts_with_Awareness\"><\/span><strong>Protecting Seniors in Westerville Starts with Awareness<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Scammers are getting craftier, but they\u2019re not unstoppable. With open conversations, a healthy dose of skepticism, and steady support, seniors can stay informed and confident, not fearful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">At <a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Always Best Care of Westerville<\/a>, we\u2019re committed to walking shoulder to shoulder with you to help your loved one stay safe, connected, and independent at home. If you\u2019d like to talk about extra support, companionship, or scam awareness for your family member, we\u2019re here to help and ready to listen at <a href=\"tel: 614-324-1061\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">(614) 324-1061<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><br><a href=\"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/94\/2026\/06\/Senior-Scams-How-to-Recognize-the-Warning-Signs-and-Protect-Your-Loved-One-in-Westerville-OH.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Link to the Markdown File version of the article<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Scams aimed at older adults aren\u2019t just annoying, they\u2019re heartbreaking and costly. In Westerville, OH, many families are shocked to discover that a polite phone call, a friendly email, or a \u201ctoo good to be true\u201d sweepstakes has emptied a loved one\u2019s savings or shaken their confidence. The tricky part? Scammers know exactly how to&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":14821,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[169],"tags":[541,542,543,544,545,546],"class_list":["post-14815","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-aging-well"],"acf":{"background_image_blog_posts":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14815","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/19"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=14815"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14815\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":14825,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/14815\/revisions\/14825"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/14821"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=14815"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=14815"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/alwaysbestcare.com\/westerville\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=14815"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}