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
- 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).
- Protect Information: Never give out sensitive data (SSN, bank details, PINs, passwords) unless you initiated the contact.
- Create a Family Password: A secret phrase for emergencies helps verify calls from family.
- Use Tech Safely: Update antivirus, use strong passwords, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA), and block pop-ups.
- Discuss Regularly: Talk openly with older relatives about scams; they may not report them due to embarrassment.
- Slow Down: Scammers rely on impulse; pause and think before acting on urgent requests.
- 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.