New Scams for 2024

Donna Nichols • May 10, 2024
Scammers are now using ai to sound like family members . it 's working.

Some of 2023’s top scams were fake barcodes on gift cards, text messages directed at someone else, crypto refunds, fake high school sports streaming sites, out-of-stock items, I received your package, what’s your address, and many more.


Let’s look at what’s new for 2024:


With the wide-spread use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) comes so many more opportunities for scammers. While it is beneficial in industries such as banking, technology, marketing and entertainment, AI opens a whole new world for those who want to rip you off.


Scammers have found ways to clone voices of your loved ones to use that against you. They will pull the voice of your child or grandchild to convince you they are in a crisis and need you to send money. Of course, you think it’s legitimate because it’s their voice. Here are some ways to recognize the scams:


If you get a phone call from someone saying they’re your grandchild and tell you they are in trouble and need money, they may say things like please don’t tell mom or dad, or you need to hurry grandpa, or you must keep this a secret. Things like that should immediately throw a red flag.


These scammers are good, they will use social media and other platforms to find out personal information about you and the person they are impersonating to be able to fool you. You need to have some kind of “code” with your grandchildren so if they are in trouble, you can ask them a certain question and if they answer it correctly, you know it’s true.


They can also impersonate your children, so beware. They may come up with things like their child (your young grandchild needs an operation), or something to that effect, and they can’t afford it. They will ask you to wire them the money or ask for your bank account information. Don’t give it to them, tell them you need some time to get the information together and will get back to them. That gives you time to check the story out.


Remember, if a caller pressures you to act immediately, begs you to keep it a secret, tries to scare you, asks for your personal information, asks for money in the form of a gift card, wire transfer or cash, or has specific instructions on how to transfer the money, it is probably a scam.


PLEASE don’t fall prey to these scammers!! They are so good and will try every tactic in the book to take your money that you worked hard for, and they don’t care.



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.