No Matter Your Age, Scammers Can Catch You by Surprise

Donna Nichols • July 9, 2024
A red warning sign with an exclamation point and the word scam.

I found this in Seniors Today and thought it very blog-worthy. It comes straight from our very own Sheriff Chitwood and with all the scams going on everyday I also deem it appropriate. I hope it makes you realize you are not alone if you have succumbed to these scammers out there and makes you understand just how good they are and how aware you must be each day. NEVER give your information to anyone. Should you receive such a call, hang up, call your bank and ask them!


This week, an unfortunate soul in west Volusia contacted the Sheriff’s Office to report being a victim of fraud: He’d received a phone call from his bank alerting him that someone had used his bank card for a $300 purchase.


The caller stated he worked at Wells Fargo Bank, our victim's bank. The caller assured him the bank would handle the fraudulent charges. First, they asked for the victim's personal bank information and full access to his phone settings.


He provided all the financial information a scammer would need to help himself to our victim's bank accounts. At the urging of the caller, our victim, who is in his early 20s, transferred a large sum from his checking account to another account. He promptly observed it disappearing from that account.


Our victim's next call was to his bank, to ask about the teller he spoke to, and learned the bank had not contacted him and was unaware of his missing money.

The victim wants to pursue criminal charges and we have an active investigation under way.


Unfortunately, this kind of scam happens regularly to people of all ages here in Volusia County. Some people have lost thousands of dollars, believing they're receiving a legitimate call from their banking institution. So, they follow directions until they realize they've been had.


We all need to educate ourselves and be vigilant, to avoid falling for these kinds of schemes that keep happening.


Tips: Here are some basic tips to avoid becoming a scam victim:


If you don't recognize the caller's number, don't answer it. They can leave a message if it's important. If they don't, you probably escaped a potential scam.


Never give out your financial or personal information over the phone-such as your birthday, Social Security number, bank account numbers, and more. Even or especially to someone who claims they're calling from your bank. They're likely an imposter. If you fear there might be a problem with your account, go to your bank in person. Check your accounts online yourself. If you're not sure, run it by someone you trust. Or our non-emergency dispatch number: 386.248.1777. Or 911 in an emergency.


Don't be rushed into making a mistake by someone who could be a scammer. Think before you act. This could be a scam. Don't fall for it.


Signs to watch for:


Have you received:


•          Unsolicited calls or emails.

•          High-pressure tactics or offers that seem too good to be true.

•          Threats of loss or risk if you don't take immediate action, even including arrest.

•          Requests for immediate payment by wire transfer, credit, prepaid debt, or especially gift cards.


Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody's website myfloridalegal.com features helpful programs with information about common scams. One program is  Scams At A Glance and includes down­loadable brochures in English and Spanish to teach consumers how to avoid becoming a fraud victim. The other program is Consumer Alert. To view recent Consumer Alerts, visit: My FloridaLegal.com/ConsumerAlert


It's easy to fall victim to scams like we've described, but you don't have to! If you're unsure, ask a trusted friend or family member, or call the Sheriff's Office at 386.248.1777 or 911 in an emergency. We're always glad to help.


Please stay savvy and stay safe,

Sheriff Mike Chitwood

Staying Active as the Weather Warms

By Donna Nichols • April 17, 2026
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Allergy Season Is Here: What Seniors Should Know

By Donna Nichols • April 2, 2026
April in Florida means sunshine, flowers, and… pollen. Lots of pollen. For many seniors, allergy season can bring sneezing, itchy eyes, congestion, and fatigue — symptoms that can be frustrating but manageable with awareness and simple habits. Here’s what older adults and caregivers should keep in mind as allergy season peaks. 1. Allergies Can Change Ov er Time Even if someone never had allergies before, they can develop later in life. The immune system shifts with age, and new sensitivities can appear. If symptoms show up suddenly each spring, allergies may be the reason. 2. Pollen Counts Are Highest in the Morning For seniors who enjoy morning walks or porch time, this can be a surprise. On high‑pollen days, shifting outdoor time to later in the afternoon can make a big difference. 3. Staying Hydrated Helps Ease Symptoms Water thins mucus, supports the immune system, and helps the body flush irritants. Seniors often drink less than they realize, so gentle reminders — a water bottle nearby, herbal tea, flavored water — can help. 4. Keep the Indoors as Allergen‑Free as Possible A few simple habits go a long way: • Keep windows closed on high‑pollen days • Change air filters regularly • Remove shoes at the door • Shower or change clothes after being outside These small steps help reduce the amount of pollen that sneaks indoors. 5. Pay Attention to New or Worsening Symptoms If allergy symptoms feel different than usual, last longer than expected, or interfere with daily life, it’s a good time to check in with a healthcare provider. Sometimes what looks like allergies can be something else entirely. A Breath of Fresh (and Cleaner) Air Allergies may be part of spring, but they don’t have to steal the joy of the season. With a little awareness and a few simple habits, seniors can stay comfortable, active, and able to enjoy everything April has to offer.

Why Are Seniors Always So Cold?

By Donna Nichols • March 9, 2026
If you’ve ever walked into a room full of older adults and noticed the sweaters, shawls, and space heaters humming in the corner, you’re not imagining it — many seniors really do feel colder than everyone else. And it’s not just a quirk. There are real, physical reasons behind it, and understanding them can make daily life a lot more comfortable. 1. Our Internal Thermostat Changes Over Time As we age, the body becomes less efficient at regulating temperature. The internal “thermostat” in the brain doesn’t respond as quickly to cold, so seniors may feel chilly even when the room is warm enough for others. 2. Less Muscle = Less Heat Muscle mass naturally decreases with age, and muscle is what helps generate body heat. With less of it, the body simply produces less warmth. Even active seniors may notice they get cold more easily than they used to. 3. Thinner Skin and Reduced Circulation Skin becomes thinner over time, offering less insulation. On top of that, circulation often slows, meaning warm blood takes longer to reach hands, feet, and other extremities. This is why fingers and toes are often the first to feel icy. 4. Medications Can Play a Role Many common medications — including those for blood pressure, thyroid issues, or depression — can affect how warm or cold someone feels. It’s not always the medication itself, but how it interacts with the body’s temperature signals. 5. Underlying Health Conditions Conditions like anemia, diabetes, thyroid disorders, or poor circulation can all contribute to feeling cold. Sometimes, persistent chilliness is the body’s way of asking for a check-in with a healthcare provider. 6. Hydration and Nutrition Matter More Than You Think Dehydration and low-calorie intake can both make the body feel colder. Seniors who don’t drink enough water or who eat lightly may notice they’re chilly more often. Simple Ways to Stay Warm and Comfortable • Layer up with breathable fabrics • Keep moving — even gentle stretching boosts circulation • Warm beverages throughout the day • Use blankets or heated throws safely • Check room drafts and adjust thermostat settings • Talk with a doctor if coldness is new or worsening A Warm Note to Close Feeling cold isn’t a sign of weakness — it’s a natural part of aging. With a few small adjustments and a little awareness, seniors can stay cozy, comfortable, and confident all year long.