Elder care is supposed to offer comfort, dignity, and peace of mind. But for thousands of seniors and their families, it’s becoming a high-stakes battleground—one where the most vulnerable are preyed on by scammers who know exactly what to say and how to say it.
From fraudulent home aides to high-tech cons targeting lonely elders, these scams exploit trust, confusion, and desperation. What’s worse is that many of them don’t even feel like scams at first. They come dressed as help, only to strip away savings, security, and sometimes even independence.
Whether you’re a caregiver, an adult child, or a senior yourself, here are eight elder care scams that are still thriving in 2025—and how to avoid becoming another statistic.
1. The “Helpful” Home Health Aide Who’s Actually Stealing
Many seniors need help with daily tasks, and hiring a caregiver can feel like a lifeline. But not all aides are trustworthy. Some use their access to steal, whether it’s cash, medications, or sensitive personal documents.
These individuals often start by building trust: they’re warm, attentive, and available. But slowly, things start disappearing. A missing ring. A drained account. A name added to a credit card.
Always run thorough background checks, even if the aide comes through an agency. Install in-home cameras in shared spaces, and monitor bank statements for strange activity.
2. Fake Medicare Representatives
This scam has evolved with technology. Scammers now spoof caller ID to make it look like Medicare is calling. They may ask to “verify” personal information or offer a new service, often under the threat of losing coverage.
Once they have your Medicare number or Social Security info, they can file fake claims, open accounts, or sell your data to other fraudsters. Real Medicare agents will never ask for personal information over the phone. Always hang up and call Medicare directly if something feels off.
3. Free Genetic Testing Fraud
“Get your free DNA test covered by Medicare!” sounds like a smart health move until your insurance is billed for thousands of dollars in fraudulent charges. This scam often appears at senior centers, wellness expos, or even through telemarketing. The testing kits may be real, but the billing is criminal. Seniors are left vulnerable to identity theft and insurance fraud.
Before taking any test, confirm with your doctor that it’s necessary and covered. Never give your Medicare number to unsolicited callers or vendors.
4. The “Emergency” Grandchild Call
It starts with a panicked voice on the phone: “Grandma, it’s me—I’m in trouble.” The scammer pretends to be a grandchild in an emergency, begging for money and secrecy.
These scams rely on emotion, urgency, and confusion, especially for seniors with memory issues. The caller often asks for wire transfers, gift cards, or crypto to “stay safe.” If you get a call like this, pause. Hang up and call the real grandchild or a parent directly. Never send money without verifying the situation first.
5. Bogus Assisted Living Refunds
This scam targets families who’ve recently lost a loved one in a care facility. The fraudster claims there’s a refund available—maybe for unused medication or overpaid rent. All they need is bank info to “process the return.” Grief clouds judgment, and scammers know it. That’s why they pounce during moments of chaos and vulnerability.
No facility should ever request sensitive financial information over the phone. Request written communication and call the facility using verified numbers to confirm.
6. Fake Charities for Veterans or Seniors
Many seniors want to give back, especially to causes they relate to. Scammers use this generosity by creating fake veteran or elder care charities that tug on heartstrings while funneling donations into offshore accounts. These operations often have professional-looking websites and compelling stories, but they’re scams.
Before donating, research the charity using Charity Navigator or the IRS database. Be wary of high-pressure donation requests or anyone asking for cash, gift cards, or crypto.
7. Unlicensed “Senior Advisors” Offering Legal or Financial Help
Seniors are often approached by self-proclaimed financial planners or legal advisors who promise to help with Medicaid applications, estate planning, or avoiding nursing home costs. While some are legitimate, others charge huge fees for services they’re not qualified to provide—or worse, use the opportunity to steal assets or redirect benefits.
Always ask for credentials. Verify licenses. If someone offers a too-good-to-be-true way to shield all assets from Medicaid, it probably is. Involve a trusted attorney or family member in any big decision.
8. Romance Scams Targeting the Lonely
Romance scams don’t stop at the young. In fact, older adults, especially those who are widowed or isolated, are often prime targets. The scammer pretends to be a loving partner who builds trust over weeks or months before suddenly needing money for an “emergency.” They may claim to be stuck overseas, facing medical bills, or trying to travel to see their beloved. By the time the victim realizes the truth, tens of thousands of dollars may be gone.
Never send money to someone you’ve never met in person. Be especially cautious if they avoid phone calls or video chats, and watch for stories that evolve around excuses and crises.
You’re Not Powerless, But You Must Be Proactive
Elder care scams thrive on silence. They succeed because people are too embarrassed, overwhelmed, or unsure to report them. But being proactive—asking questions, verifying identities, and slowing down in moments of pressure—can stop these scams before they start.
Talk openly with aging parents, caregivers, and siblings about what’s happening behind the scenes. Set up financial safeguards like transaction alerts and limited account access. And most importantly, remind the seniors in your life: it’s okay to say no, hang up, or wait.
Have you or someone you love encountered one of these scams or narrowly avoided one?
Read More:
7 Legal Lessons from Recent Elder Abuse Cases—Don’t Be the Next Victim
6 Insurance Loopholes That Slash Elderly-Care Premiums Overnight
Riley Schnepf is an Arizona native with over nine years of writing experience. From personal finance to travel to digital marketing to pop culture, she’s written about everything under the sun. When she’s not writing, she’s spending her time outside, reading, or cuddling with her two corgis.
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