Older Adult Scam Prevention Advisory Group

By Jacci Gruninger, Executive Director

I am excited to share that we have recently created an Older Adult Scam Prevention Advisory Group to combat scams that disproportionately affect older adults. This initiative comes as a response to the increasing prevalence of scams targeting the elderly population and the need for proactive measures to protect vulnerable individuals.

The advisory group will consist of a diverse range of members, including business leaders, county employees, LAPD representatives, and Senior Center members. By bringing together expertise from various sectors, the group aims to identify, address, and prevent scams effectively. The primary focus areas of the group will revolve around increasing consumer education, providing specialized training, and identifying current scam trends.

In a significant boost to the group's efforts, we recently received a $9,000 grant from the State of New Mexico for scam prevention initiatives. This funding will enable the group to implement educational programs, training workshops, and outreach activities aimed at empowering older adults to recognize, avoid, and report scams.

One notable approach the group plans to adopt is the utilization of "train the trainer" techniques, which will enable community members and senior center participants to actively engage in the scam prevention efforts. The group plans to initiate a gradual rollout of activities in October, coinciding with Cybersecurity Awareness Month, followed by the official launch of the comprehensive initiative in January 2025.

By leveraging the collective expertise and resources of its members, the Older Adult Scam Prevention Advisory Group endeavors to create a safer environment for older adults by equipping them with the knowledge and tools to protect themselves from scams. This proactive approach reflects the community's commitment to safeguarding its older population and promoting greater awareness and resilience against fraudulent activities.