2023’S Top Scams

Donna Nichols • April 17, 2023
A woman is sitting at a desk looking at a laptop computer.

I’ve written blogs on this topic before, but I just can’t stand people, especially seniors, being taken advantage of. This came from the April 2023 AARP Bulletin, and I found it very interesting. I am not copying it word for word, I will just highlight some of the important parts of the 2023 top scams for you! All the ways to prevent the scams are recommended by the Better Business Bureau and the Federal Trade Commission. The April 2023 bulletin is not on the website yet, but there is much more valuable information at www.AARP.org.


1.     Look out for fake barcodes on gift cards! The crooks affix fake barcode stickers over the real ones on the back of gift cards in stores. When you purchase the card, the cashier scans the fake barcode at checkout which then directs YOUR money right into their bank account and leaves you with a worthless gift card. How do make sure you have a real gift card? Some of them have matching numbers on the barcode and gift card packaging that you can see and match. You can feel or gently scratch the barcode on a gift card before buying it. Don’t buy it if the barcode is on a sticker, the package is ripped, wrinkled, bent, or looks tampered with.


2.     Have you ever received a text message directed at someone else? You think you’re being nice by replying, “sorry, wrong number.” The person then tries to get you to engage in a conversation where they try to get some of your personal information. What do you do when you receive such a text? Do not respond. Simply delete the message, or if it says reply stop to end further messages, then block the number; don’t reply with stop. If you reply with the word stop, they know they have a working number. They may then use your number for another scam.


3.     Crypto Refund Swindles. If you have lost money in a cryptocurrency scam, BEWARE! You could now become a potential “refund and recovery” victim. The criminals set up fake “get your crypto cash back” websites and they make them look like they are from the U.S. Department of State. Once you respond, they will contact you by phone, email or social media and ask for personal ID information. They will ask for account numbers and passwords, plus an advance fee for their services payable by gift card or wire transfer. What do you receive? NOTHING!!!


4.     Fake High School Sports Streaming Sites. Criminals claim they will show you the big game, but instead they steal your money and information. During the pandemic, streaming your grandchild’s high school sports game became a big thing and they were often free via a legit outlet recognized by the school. However, scam streaming apps are popping up on social media before the events, posting messages about streaming the game; they may even mention a key athlete’s name to make it sound more legit. Sometimes the athlete will resend the message not realizing it’s a scam. So, when it is game time, you click on the link, enter your credit card number, and never see the game. The scammers now have your credit card information and your personal ID information. What can you do to prevent this? Contact the school before the game and ask them how you can stream it.


5.     Out-of-Stock item scam. Scammers are now creating fake websites with too good to be true prices for items we all want. You go online and order the item and wait. You receive an email stating it is out of stock and your refund is on the way. They promise you a refund, but you never receive it, and you can’t reach anyone at the company. How do you prevent this? FTC recommends researching businesses online before you buy, and only shop on secure websites with a lock symbol in the browser bar and an address that begins with “https.”


6.     I have got your package, where’s your house? This may be the scariest scam of all! Have you ever ordered a package and it was delivered to the wrong address? Sure, it’s happened to all of us. But scammers are now getting your phone number and texting or calling you saying they received your package by mistake, and asking your address. Also, fake delivery drivers may leave a note on your door stating delivery attempt failed, please call this number. When you call the number they will provide you a link to click on to schedule a delivery date, but that link downloads malware that will grab your passwords and account information from your computer. What to do if you get such a notice? Contact the seller or delivery service using a verified phone number and DON’T use numbers or links provided by potential scammers.


It's really sad how many new scams come out every day. It seems no one is safe from these people who don’t want to live an honest life like most of us. Our seniors are the most vulnerable and we at Assisted Living Made Simple are here to help protect you! If you have questions, please call us at 386-847-2322. If you think you have been a victim of a scam, or a potential victim, please contact your local law enforcement. 

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What can a Senior Advisor do for you?

By Donna Nichols • July 17, 2025
A senior advisor is a personal guide or advocate for older adults and their families. Here’s what they can do for you: Help Navigate Options They can explain the differences between independent living, assisted living, memory care, nursing homes, and in-home care, and recommend the best option for a person's health, lifestyle, and budget. Find the Right Community or Services They often have knowledge of (and connections with) local senior living communities or services. They’ll: Match your needs to suitable options Setting up tours Even help ask the right questions Assist with Financial Planning Some advisors can help figure out how to pay for care: Understanding long-term care insurance Veterans’ benefits Medicaid/Medicare guidance Budget planning Guide Legal and Paperwork Stuff They can refer you to elder law attorneys, help with advance directives, or even help you understand contracts from senior living facilities. Support for Families They can act as a neutral third party when families struggle with decisions, easing tension and helping everyone feel informed and involved. Assist with Movers and Downsizers Some advisors have connections with movers, downsizers, and other people who can make your transition smooth.  If you believe a senior advisor can assist you, please call us today to schedule your complimentary consultation at 386-847-2322 . Our services are 100% FREE to you! What have you got to lose?

Beating the Florida Summer Heat

By Donna Nichols • July 7, 2025
Florida summers come in three flavors: hot, hotter, and what fresh hell is this? Whether you're a lifelong local or newly initiated into the Sunshine Sweat Fest, you know it’s more survival sport than season. So, how do we stay cool without losing our cool? Here’s your sun-savvy guide to getting through it. Make hydration a hobby Not just water, electrolytes are your best friends when you're sweaty. Coconut water, cucumber-mint spritzers, watermelon slices. If your drink doesn’t sparkle, chill, or drip condensation like a rom-com montage, it’s not summer-ready. Dress for success and summertime Loose, light, breathable fabrics. Cotton, linen, or the holy grail: moisture-wicking. Bonus points for sun hats and SPF clothing that make you look like a beach detective on vacation. Fans ARE your best friends Table fans, ceiling fans, handheld fans—the whole rotation. Keep them oscillating like your thoughts during a political debate. And if you’ve got a cooling towel? You’re royalty. Avoid the “Roasting Hours” From 11 AM to 4 PM, Florida turns into a convection oven. Errands, walks, and yard work? Schedule them early or late. Unless you’re trying to get baked like a Publix cookie—then by all means. Sunscreen is a lifestyle Apply, reapply, then pretend  you're an influencer and do it again. Because nothing says “I’m melting” like a shoulder burn shaped like your purse strap. Eat lightly Cold meals can be your best friend—salads, chilled pasta, and fruit-forward lunches are all options. Bonus points if you serve them on plates fresh from the fridge like the true champion you are. Rest, reset, repeat If the heat’s making you crankier than a mosquito at a citronella convention, take breaks: shade, air conditioning, quiet corners. Recharge without guilt—you’re surviving a sauna with its own zip code. Florida heat might be relentless, but so are we. With humor, hydration, and a healthy dose of stubborn grace, we ride the wave and keep the ice cubes coming. Stay cool out there, friends. You’ve got this.

Honoring Independence Day with Grace

By Donna Nichols • July 2, 2025
Not every 4th of July needs to burst with fireworks. For many older adults, especially those with tender hearing, health challenges, or a fondness for quieter joys, Independence Day can be just as meaningful in a slower rhythm. It’s the scent of something delicious simmering nearby, the comfort of a cool seat and a cherished show, and the simple dignity of being remembered; of having made it this far, with stories to tell and wisdom that still glows brighter than any sparkler. Caregiver Tips for a Thoughtful 4th: Keep things soft and soothing. Loud sounds can be jarring for seniors with sensory sensitivities, dementia, or PTSD. Choose instrumental patriotic music or old-time radio shows that bring joy without overwhelming them. Build a gentle plate. Soft, easy-to-eat favorites like tender pulled chicken, mashed potatoes, or a festive red, white, and blue parfait (layered Greek yogurt, mashed berries, and crushed graham crackers) keep things celebratory without strain. Spark memories, not stress. Bring out family photo albums, classic Americana films, or even music from their youth. Columbo, The Andy Griffith Show, or golden-age musicals can be a comforting trip down memory lane. Create rest-friendly spaces. A cozy chair near the window, a shaded seat outside, or even a reclined viewing spot for a live TV broadcast of fireworks can help them feel included without fatigue. Let them lead the conversation. Ask about what Independence Day meant to them growing up. You might discover tales of ration books, war bonds, or dancing at VFW halls. These stories are treasures wrapped in the quiet of the day.  In the end, Independence Day is about honoring resilience—the kind that’s quieter, often overlooked, but profoundly enduring. Whether you’re caring for someone, being cared for, or simply holding space for reflection, there’s beauty in choosing peace over spectacle. This Fourth of July, let’s celebrate not just the freedom of a nation but also the freedom to adapt, to rest, and to cherish those we love in the way that suits them best.