Seniors vs. Crime

Donna Nichols • July 13, 2023
A logo for the florida attorney general 's office

Did you know there is an organization called Seniors vs. Crime? Neither did I, but it was organized in 1989 by the Florida Legislature. It was formed to report on crime and the elderly. This task force, back in 1989 mind you, found that seniors were being targeted for scams, subjected to high-pressure sales tactics, and were being deceived by false advertising.


The Attorney General’s office created the program Seniors vs. Crime to help adults avoid crime, scams, hoaxes, and to help recover from being a victim. Now, 34 years later, the scams have become worse and there are so many more than what was. This task force can help you once you have been a victim, but I do not see where they have been able to accomplish helping avoid scams. Although, I do not know how many people know about them, as this is the first time I am hearing about Seniors vs. Crime.


The primary goal of this program is to reduce victimization of senior citizens who are often targeted for specific crimes based on their age.

How does this program work?


If you feel you have been a victim of a scam, gather all your documentation (receipts, work orders, contract, etc.), and bring them to the Seniors vs. Crime office so they can review your case. (Address and phone number at end of blog). Most cases are solved in a brief time, but others may take a longer amount of time, depending on the circumstances. Also, not all cases may be resolved to your satisfaction, but everything possible will be done to make that happen.


What can you do to prevent being a victim?


  • Obtain at least three (3) written estimates on any work you are going to have done.


  • Check with your local Better Business Bureau or government agency before having the work done to ensure the contractor is licensed and dependable.


  • Have a written contract for ALL work to be performed.


  • Make sure your contractor is licensed and insured!


  • NEVER give out your bank account or social security numbers, especially over the phone.


Scam Red Flags


  • Think before opening links.


  • NEVER open non-English internet links!


  • Do NOT hit unsubscribe!


  • Always use secure https:// sites.


  • Always know who you are giving personal data to and NEVER send personal data through an unsecured link!


  • Always verify call back telephone number inquiries.


  • Use strong passwords and NEVER you easy to decipher passwords such as name, date of birth, children’s date of birth, etc.


Here are some of the top scams out there today:


  • Defective roofs.


  • Landscaping issues.


  • Unapproved construction.


  • Unlicensed massage treatments.


  • Cruise scams.


  • Extended warranties.


  • DNA testing.


  • Home warranties.


  • Faulty flooring.


  • Cable TV/satellite scams.


  • Appliance scams.


Top complaints from seniors:


  • Moving companies.


  • Car dealerships


  • Construction contractors.


  • Job cancellation and/or refunds.


  • Computer issues.


  • Plumbing contractors.


  • Concrete contractors.


  • Dishonest travel agents.


  • A/C repair technicians.


  • Pool installation contractor.


  • Paving contractor.


If you feel you have been victimized, please reach out Seniors vs. Crime at 407-537-9509 or by email at volusia@svcproject.org. They are located at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, 724 Big Tree Rd., South Daytona, FL 32119, and the website is https://www.seniorsvscrime.com.



A red stamp with the words scam alert written on it

Protecting Your Skin at Every Age — Especially Under the Florida Sun

By Donna Nichols • May 4, 2026
May is Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, an important time to talk about protecting the skin we live in. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and Florida’s year‑round sunshine makes awareness especially important for seniors. Many older adults grew up in a time before sunscreen was widely used, which means decades of sun exposure may increase risk today. Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, can develop quickly — but when caught early, it is highly treatable. Other types of skin cancer, like basal cell and squamous cell carcinoma, are also common in seniors and often appear on areas that have seen the most sun over the years: the face, ears, neck, arms, and hands. What to look for: Early detection saves lives. Seniors should watch for: • New spots or moles • Changes in size, shape, or color • Spots that itch, bleed, or don’t heal • Anything that looks different from the rest Dermatologists often use the ABCDE rule to help identify concerning changes: Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter larger than a pencil eraser, and Evolving over time. Simple ways to protect your skin: • Wear a wide‑brimmed hat and lightweight long sleeves when outdoors • Use sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and reapply regularly • Seek shade during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) • Avoid tanning beds • Schedule regular skin checks with a dermatologist, especially if you’ve had sunburns in the past Skin cancer awareness isn’t about avoiding the outdoors — it’s about enjoying it safely. Sunshine can lift our spirits, support healthy sleep, and encourage movement, but it’s important to protect ourselves along the way. With a few mindful habits and regular check‑ins, seniors can stay active, confident, and sun‑smart all year long.

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.