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

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.