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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Benefits of Assisted Living

By Donna Nichols • May 2, 2025
Assisted living has many benefits, especially for older adults or people needing help with daily activities but not requiring full-time medical care. Here's a quick breakdown: Independence and support Residents get to maintain a level of independence while having access to help with things like: Bathing, dressing, or grooming Medication management Meal preparation So they still have freedom without the stress of handling everything alone. Access to care Staff is usually available 24/7, and while it’s not a nursing home, many places have nurses or aides on hand for basic health needs, depending on their licensure. It’s a safety net in case anything happens. Meals & housekeeping Daily meals, cleaning, laundry, and other chores are usually included, which reduces stress and gives you more time to enjoy life. Social life Assisted living communities often have activities, group outings, and common areas, which can help prevent loneliness and boost mental health. Safety & security These places are designed with safety in mind, such as grab bars, emergency call systems, and accessible layouts. Plus, knowing someone’s always nearby gives peace of mind. Peace of mind (for families, too) Families often feel relieved knowing their loved one is in a supportive environment where help is readily available. As you can see, assisted living has many benefits. If you feel it is unsafe for you or your loved one to live alone, please consider assisted living. It will give you peace of mind and them the safety and security they require.  If you or a loved one is ready to move to assisted living, please call us at 386-847-2322. We are experts in senior care.

What’s in Your Box?

By Donna Nichols • April 8, 2025
What does that mean? It means what’s important to you. What do you want to take with you should you leave your home and move to an assisted living community? Assisted living apartments typically range from 500 to 900 square feet, so if you come from a home that is 2,000 square feet, you will be losing a significant amount of square footage. What’s important to me may not be important to you; it differs for everyone. You’ll want to balance practical needs with personal comforts when thinking about what to bring. Here's a breakdown of what might be in your box and what to consider taking with you: When preparing to move into an assisted living community, the "box" is a metaphor for the essentials or comforts you’re packing to make the space your own. Here’s what could go in that box: Personal Essentials: Clothing: Comfortable, easy-to-wear clothes, including shoes that are safe for walking (like non-slip footwear). Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, lotion, and other personal hygiene items. Medications: A well-organized container for daily meds (check with staff for any medication regulations). Comforting Personal Items: Photographs: Family pictures, old albums, or framed photos of pets can help create a homier feel. Favorite Books or Magazines: If you love to read, packing a few favorite books or magazines can be comforting. Blankets or Throw Pillows: Soft, cozy items that remind you of home. Technology: Cell phone or tablet: Stay in touch with family and friends. If needed, a simple phone with larger buttons might be helpful. Charger and headphones: Keep your devices powered up and ready for entertainment or communication. Entertainment & Hobbies: Crafts, puzzles, or knitting: Hobbies like knitting, crocheting, or painting can offer a good mental boost. Music: A playlist or a device with your favorite tunes. Maybe even a small portable speaker. Documents: Important papers: Health documents, insurance information, and personal identification should always be within easy reach. Safety Items: Walkers or canes: If you use mobility aids, don't forget these items. Glasses and Hearing Aids: Any vision or hearing accessories you rely on to help with daily life. What would you take with you? When moving into an assisted living community, you may not have the space for everything you own, so bringing only the most meaningful and necessary items is important. Here's a breakdown of what to take with you: Personal Care and Health Items: Your medications, medical devices (like CPAP machines), and other health-related essentials should come. Items like hearing aids, glasses, and dentures are crucial to have on hand. Don’t forget a first aid kit with basic items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and a thermometer. Bedding and Furniture: Sheets, blankets, and pillows that are soft and familiar. If allowed, take small, comfortable furniture like a favorite chair or nightstand. Decorative Touches: Personal touches such as a family photo frame, a small vase, or your favorite artwork can make a new space feel welcoming. Consider a small rug to help make the room feel warmer and more comfortable. Clothing: Comfortable clothing that suits the climate where you’ll be living. Slippers and non-slip shoes are very important for safety and comfort. Seasonal clothing: Depending on the time of year, pack sweaters, jackets, hats, or lighter clothes. Technology: Smartphone or tablet for keeping in touch with family and friends. A Kindle or e-reader could be a great option if you like to read but want to save space. Tangible Keepsakes: A small heirloom, a favorite book, or a memory box filled with meaningful trinkets can bring emotional comfort in a new place. Food & Kitchen Tools (if allowed): Some assisted living communities may allow you to have a few personal items for snacks, like a mini fridge or microwave in your room. Favorite snacks or special foods you enjoy might be comforting to have on hand. Considerations for Your New Space Each assisted living community has its own rules and space limitations, so it’s a good idea to ask what you can bring and what is already provided. Many communities offer furniture, housekeeping, and even activities, so your primary focus may be personalizing your space with items that truly bring you joy and comfort. Ultimately, the most important things to take will help you feel settled, safe, and supported in this new chapter of your life. What’s in your box for this kind of move? Are there any personal items you would want to make sure are packed?

Live in the Now

By Shar Barron • April 1, 2025
Why do we wait? Now is here. Buy the pretty flowers, eat the cake, call that old friend, and tell “your person” you love them. I see couples staring at their phones in restaurants instead of each other, and it saddens me. My husband is gone, and oh, how I’d love to sit and stare at him, talk to him over a meal. I used to go home and hear, “How was your day?” Now, I hear only silence. I didn’t miss his voice until it was no more. What I wouldn’t give to hear it again. Living in the now means you look forward to that greeting or sharing that meal. Who can I tell my secrets to? Who will never tell another soul? My guy was my confidant, and I miss that so much! I have no one to be silly with or cry with; all that is gone forever. You need to breathe. Sometimes, that little breath gives you time to remember the good things. Instead of rushing around and trying to do so much… Today is a gift. That gift is now, and if you take a breath… Sometimes, you realize how blessed you are. Look up at the sky, listen to the birds chirp, and watch the sun rise and set… Just take that moment, take that breath, and enjoy the now. If you think of someone, don’t hesitate to call them. If you want to go somewhere, don’t wait. The best advice that can be given is to simply breathe and recognize that this moment is the most important part of your day. The NOW matters. You realize it too late most of the time. Value the NOW. Make the NOW matter! Embrace the precious little moments. Savor the nonsensical words. The NOW is priceless; realize it before you don’t have someone to share it with. Live in the NOW before it’s gone.  God gave you the gift of NOW - what a priceless treasure. Grab it and enjoy those NOW moments. There are so many, and those memories are baked into your bones to treasure forever.
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