Older adults play a vital role in our families and communities, but they are also more vulnerable to abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation.
On World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, the Social Security Administration reminds us that protecting seniors is a shared responsibility. Families, friends, neighbors, and caregivers all have an important role in helping older adults stay safe.
This issue is especially important for the blind and low vision community. In the United States, more than half of people with blindness or low vision are age 65 or older. As individuals age, they may face increased risk of financial abuse from scammers, caregivers, or even trusted family members.
At Penny Forward, we believe that with the right training, tools, and support, people with age-related vision loss can continue to manage their finances independently and confidently while protecting themselves from exploitation.
What Elder Abuse Can Look Like
Elder abuse can take many forms, including:
• Physical abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Neglect
• Financial exploitation
• Scams and fraud
Sometimes the signs are obvious, but in many cases they are subtle and difficult to detect. This is why awareness and regular check-ins are so important.
How Scammers Target Older Adults
The Social Security Administration warns that scammers often impersonate government employees to trick people into sharing personal information or sending money.
These scams may come through:
• Phone calls
• Text messages
• Emails
• Social media messages
Scammers often try to create fear or urgency by claiming there is a problem with your Social Security number or benefits.
The “Never Ever” Rules to Remember
To help protect yourself, the SSA encourages everyone to remember:
• Never ever will someone from the government tell you to move your money to protect it
• Never ever will someone threaten to suspend your benefits if you do not pay immediately
• Never ever will someone demand payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or payment apps
If something feels suspicious, pause and verify before taking action.
How Family and Friends Can Help
Loved ones play a critical role in preventing financial abuse and scams.
You can help by:
• Staying in regular contact through calls or visits
• Watching for sudden changes in finances or behavior
• Helping review mail, bills, or messages if asked
• Encouraging safe online habits
• Speaking up if something feels wrong
Simple check-ins can make a meaningful difference in someone’s safety and independence.
Why This Matters
Financial abuse can have a serious impact on older adults, especially those who rely on fixed incomes like Social Security benefits.
For many blind and low vision individuals, maintaining independence in financial management is closely tied to dignity, confidence, and long-term stability.
At Penny Forward, we believe independence and protection can go hand in hand. With accessible financial education and the right support systems, older adults can stay in control of their money while reducing risk.
Penny Forward’s Bottom Line
Elder abuse prevention is not just a one day message it is an ongoing responsibility.
Whether through awareness, education, or simple daily check-ins, we all have the power to help protect older adults from financial harm.
This World Elder Abuse Awareness Day is a reminder to reach out, stay connected, and help ensure the older adults in our lives are safe, supported, and respected.
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