Safer Shopping for Seniors

When we think of shopping, there are certain risks that are always a possibility. Unfortunately, seniors are often more vulnerable to these risks. The holiday season often brings with it criminals who are targeting shoppers, both in stores and online. Below are some tips to help senior shoppers stay safe whether shopping with mobility issues, shopping in general, or online.

General Shopping Safety Tips for Seniors

Shopping can often be overwhelming for all of us, including seniors. Seniors often are less mobile and may move more slowly than others in crowded stores, thus putting them at greater risk for criminal activity. Here are some tips to make shopping safe and successful for you or your elderly loved one.

  1. Shop early in the day, especially on weekdays, to avoid large crowds. Often this is a time when stores are less crowded and seniors can navigate the stores more easily. Another benefit to shopping on weekdays is that many stores offer senior discounts throughout the week. During weekends and evenings after work, many stores become overcrowded and more difficult to get around.
  2. Have a “shopping buddy.” Going with a friend gives added safety if you or your loved one has issues with mobility. There’s much to the saying, “safety in numbers.” Plus, shopping with a buddy makes the experience more enjoyable.
  3. Don’t wait until the last minute. Often stores are busy in the last few days before the holidays. Shoppers can become less careful and more irritable which can present problems for seniors.
  4. Always keep your car locked and store packages in the trunk or out of sight. This will help deter thieves from breaking into the vehicle.
  5. Shop during daylight hours whenever possible. If it is necessary to shop at night, park as close as possible to the door and always in well-lit areas. The light often serves to deter predators.
  6. Be aware of your surroundings and personal belongings. This can go a long way in helping to protect seniors from those who may attempt to take advantage of them or who may try to steal personal belongings.

Online Shopping Safety Tips for Seniors

There are many unscrupulous people who attempt to scam online shoppers. Being aware of this fact and shopping with eyes wide open is key in keeping financial information safe while online shopping. Below are some tips for seniors to remember while online shopping.

  1. Many online sellers offer excellent deals, but it is important to remember that if a deal seems too good to be true it probably is. Check on unknown companies. A quick Google search can provide reviews or information about the legitimacy of online companies.
  2. Create strong and unique passwords. This makes it more difficult for hackers and those trying to steal personal information to get into the accounts. Unique passwords can be difficult to remember, so be sure to keep them written down and in a safe place.
  3. Shop with trusted and known retailers. Most of these websites provide built in security for their shoppers.
  4. Watch extra costs such as shipping. Companies will sometimes offer low prices, but then increase shipping prices to recoup some money.

For seniors, shopping can sometimes seem overwhelming no matter what method of shopping is chosen. It doesn’t have to be. It can be a fun and enjoyable experience just by following these safety tips.

If you have any questions about something you have read or would like additional information, please feel free to contact us.

7 Tips for Talking to Your Parents About Long-Term Care Planning Over the Holidays

There is never a right time to talk to your parents and grandparents about their long-term care plans. With the holidays here, you may find yourself traveling to see those you love who live far away. This time together can provide the perfect opportunity to talk together about the future. As we age, many of us will need a bit more help. This help can take the form of paying bills, driving, and assistance with activities of daily living.

Starting a conversation focused on the uncertainty surrounding the aging process is never easy. Especially when you are talking to Older Americans who may have significant fears over the thought of leaving his or her home at some point in the future, the loss of a spouse, or isolation. Many seniors, even those you care about most, may express feelings of resentment and hostility over conversations that focus on their future.

Regardless of how uncomfortable the conversation may be at first, it is critical to have. When you and your parents or grandparents have a plan for how to handle the future, even the most complicated aging issues can become more manageable. Let us share with you the top seven tips we recommend to our clients, friends, advisors, and community that you can use to check-in and start the conversation.

Is their estate planning up-to-date? Many people who create estate planning documents think that once the documents are signed the planning is complete. Nothing is further from the truth. Circumstances change and plans need to be updated. Ask your loved one if their planning is up-to-date and reflects their current needs.

Who are their decision-makers? Knowing who the decision-makers are in times of health and in times of crisis is crucial. Ask now who the decision-makers are, as well as, who the back-up decision-makers are. Knowing who needs to make decisions in a crisis will be helpful should the time come.

Who is their attorney? Although it may seem an unusual question to ask, knowing who the attorney that your loved one works with is immensely helpful in a crisis. Their attorney should be able to guide you through unseen issues and be available to help in the future. Do not wait to ask your loved one the name of their attorney, address, phone number, and website.

What is the condition of the home? It is important to visit the home of your loved one and look around. Is your loved one aging well in their home?  Is it easy for him or her to move around? Is he or she having a hard time with the stairs? What is the state of the food in the refrigerator? Looking at the physical environment can give you insight into your loved one’s current capabilities.

Do you have a list of doctors? In addition to asking who your love one’s attorney is, ask who is his or her primary care doctor. Also, ask if they are regularly seeing any specialists. These inquiries may lead you to discovering conditions you were not aware of. In addition, it is good to be prepared with phone numbers and contact information should you need them in the future.

Is there a current list of medicines? Take the time to ask about medication. Many seniors are taking a number of different medications. Having an up-to-date list is important for you and any future healthcare decision-maker, but it is also important for the Older American to have as well. An accurate list of medicines may not be something that their primary doctor or specialist is privy to right now. Ask your loved one to prepare this list and then take it with them to any doctor’s appointment.

Have they started to plan for the costs of long-term care? Talk to your parents and grandparents about their long-term care planning as soon as possible. Unfortunately, long-term care is expensive and most of the services are not covered by Medicare. Meet with an elder law attorney who understands the landscape and what your loved one needs both now and in the future.

This is just a start in regard to the discussion you can have with your loved ones during the holidays. Always try to speak from a place of compassion and empathy. Remember, this is a conversation that should take place throughout the year, not just during the holidays. If you need help or if this article raises more questions than it answers, do not wait to ask us your questions today.

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