Caregiver Updates

January 27, 2026

Reminder that if you need access to your personnel records, please contact our office. You may call 408-979-9990 or email hr@fshomecare.com. 
(We have to send this out annually.) 

Elder Scam Awareness 

Elder scam awareness focuses on recognizing pressure tactics (urgency, isolation), protecting personal info (never share SSN/bank details), verifying requests by calling known numbers (not from caller's info), and using tech safety like strong passwords & antivirus, as scammers use fear, romance, and impersonation (FBI, Tech Support, Grandparent) to steal money, so stop, think, verify before any transaction, especially involving gift cards or wire transfers.  

Common Scam Tactics & Red Flags 

• Urgency & Fear: Threats of arrest (impersonating law enforcement), problems with accounts, or fake emergencies (grandparent scams) pressure immediate action. 
• Isolation: Scammers tell victims not to tell anyone, blocking outside verification. 
• Impersonation: Pretending to be tech support, bank officials, or romantic interests. 
• High-Pressure Sales: "Too good to be true" investment offers or door-to-door sales. 
• Request for Unusual Payments: Asking for gift cards, wire transfers, or precious metals.  

How to Protect Yourself & Loved Ones 

1. Verify Independently: Hang up on unexpected calls and call the organization directly using a number you know is legitimate (from their official website or bill). 
2. Protect Information: Never give out sensitive data (SSN, bank details, PINs, passwords) unless you initiated the contact. 
3. Create a Family Password: A secret phrase for emergencies helps verify calls from family. 
4. Use Tech Safely: Update antivirus, use strong passwords, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA), and block pop-ups. 
5. Discuss Regularly: Talk openly with older relatives about scams; they may not report them due to embarrassment. 
6. Slow Down: Scammers rely on impulse; pause and think before acting on urgent requests. 
7. Shred Documents: Securely dispose of papers with sensitive info.  

What to Do If Targeted 

• End Communication: Hang up, delete the text/email. 
• Report: Contact local police and relevant agencies like the FTC or FBI. 
• Don't Send Money: Never send money, gift cards, or gold to unverified contacts. 

This is a good website to review:  https://www.ncoa.org/older-adults/money/management/avoiding-scams/ 

Caregiver of the Month: Mina A 

Safety Star: Esther O.

Gas Card Winner: Shaynna C.