Seniors vs. Crime
Donna Nichols • July 13, 2023
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.
Florida's paradise of sun-kissed beaches, vibrant culture, and tropical beauty—is also home to one of the most intense annual weather phenomena: hurricane season. From June 1 to November 30, Floridians remain on high alert as powerful storms brew in the Atlantic, each potentially bringing torrential rain, fierce winds, and coastal surges. Understanding hurricane season is crucial for residents and visitors, as it ensures safety and preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. The Impact on Florida Florida has experienced some of the most destructive hurricanes in history, including Andrew (1992), Irma (2017), Ian (2022), Debby, Helene, and Milton (2024). These storms left behind immense devastation, flooding homes, severing power lines, and reshaping entire communities. The economic toll of hurricanes is staggering, affecting local businesses, tourism, and infrastructure. Coastal regions, particularly the Florida Keys and areas along the Gulf Coast, often face the most significant risk. However, inland areas are not immune—wind damage and flooding can wreak havoc miles from the shoreline. Preparing for Hurricane Season Being prepared is the best defense against hurricanes. Here’s how Floridians can safeguard themselves: Stay Informed : Monitor local weather reports and emergency alerts. The National Hurricane Center provides real-time tracking and updates. Create an Emergency Kit : Stock up on essentials, including water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, and extra batteries. Don’t forget important documents and pet supplies! Have a Plan : Know evacuation routes and shelter locations. Discuss emergency plans with family members and establish a safe meeting point. Secure Your Home : Reinforce windows, clear debris from your yard, and consider investing in storm shutters if possible. Hurricane season is a reality in Florida, but with preparation and awareness, residents can confidently weather the storm. Whether you’re a lifelong Floridian or a visitor experiencing the Sunshine State, staying informed and ready is key. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember—storms may come, but resilience keeps Florida strong.
Hurricane season in Florida, running from June to November, is a time for preparation, not panic. While these storms bring powerful winds, heavy rain, and potential flooding, a well-thought-out plan can make all the difference—especially for seniors. Taking proactive steps ensures safety, comfort, and peace of mind when the storm arrives. Let’s explore how you can best prepare, stay safe, and recover after the storm. For seniors, hurricanes present unique challenges. Mobility concerns may make evacuation difficult, medical needs require careful planning, and power outages can disrupt essential healthcare devices. Knowing the potential risks helps guide preparation efforts. Flooding: Heavy rain and storm surges can cause rapid water level rises, making roads impassable and homes vulnerable. Strong Winds: Hurricanes can bring winds exceeding 100 mph, toppling trees, damaging homes, and cutting off power. Extended Recovery Time: After a storm, essential services may be limited, making access to food, medications, and transportation difficult. Essential Preparations Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with the following essentials: medications, medical records, flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food, and water (enough for one gallon per person per day) – sufficient for three to five days. Evacuation Plan: Find nearby senior-friendly hurricane shelters that provide accessibility and medical support. Arrange Transportation: If you don’t drive, organize transportation with family, friends, or local emergency services. Communication Strategy: Stay connected with family, neighbors, and emergency contacts. Sign up for emergency alerts through local weather services. Staying Safe During the Storm When the storm arrives, stay indoors and follow safety guidelines. Shelter Wisely: If you are staying home, choose an interior room away from windows. Monitor Updates: Use a battery-powered radio or phone to stay informed on conditions. Stay Calm: Practice relaxation techniques to manage stress and anxiety. What to do After the Storm Once the storm passes, careful steps ensure safety. • Assess Damage before venturing outside—watch for fallen power lines or debris. • Seek Assistance for cleanup, repairs, or financial aid through FEMA or community organizations. • Emotional Resilience: Recovering from a hurricane takes time. Connect with neighbors, friends, and local support groups to help ease the process. Conclusion Preparation is the best way to weather the storm—both physically and emotionally. By taking proactive steps, seniors can remain safe, informed, and in control during hurricane season. If you or a loved one needs additional support, contact your local emergency management office or organizations like the Red Cross. Stay safe, stay prepared, and remember that every storm eventually passes.
Aging isn’t about slowing down—it’s about living more deliberately. As people age, their priorities shift from chasing time to cherishing it. So, what do seniors truly want? The answer is as diverse as the individuals themselves, but some clear themes emerge when we listen closely. 1. Connection and Community One of the most important things seniors crave is connection. Meaningful relationships bring joy and purpose, whether with family, old friends, or new acquaintances. Many seek social opportunities through clubs, senior centers, classes, or online communities. Loneliness can be a silent struggle, so companionship is a deeply valued part of life. 2. Respect and Independence Seniors want to be seen for who they are: individuals with a lifetime of experience, knowledge, and stories. Being treated with dignity and not being "talked down to" matters. So does having the freedom to make choices about their own lives. Maintaining a sense of autonomy is key when deciding how to spend their day, what to eat, or where to live. 3. Health and Wellness Staying healthy is more than just avoiding illness—it’s about having the energy to enjoy life. Seniors are increasingly proactive about fitness, mental health, and nutrition. Access to quality healthcare, fitness programs tailored to their needs, and mental stimulation are all top priorities. 4. Purpose and Meaning Retirement doesn’t mean retiring from life. Many seniors want to stay active through volunteering, mentoring, or even starting new ventures. Purpose drives fulfillment, whether taking care of grandchildren, learning a new skill, or contributing to a cause they care about. 5. Security and Peace of Mind Financial stability, safe housing, and access to reliable services give seniors peace of mind. Many are concerned about outliving their savings, dealing with unexpected health issues, or navigating complex systems. Clear information, supportive resources, and a sense of safety help ease these worries. 6. Fun and Adventure Yes—seniors still want fun! Travel, hobbies, music, food, and laughter never go out of style. Joy is ageless, whether it's a road trip, gardening, or dancing to old tunes. Seniors want to experience life, not just watch it pass by. Start by Listening Ultimately, the best way to understand what seniors want is simple: ask them. Every person, no matter their age, has unique preferences, needs, and dreams. When we listen with empathy and engage with respect, we create a world where aging is celebrated, not feared. Let’s build that world together. Call us to help each other enrich the lives of our seniors. 386-847-2322.