BBB Resources to Help Older Adults
Grandparents Day is Sunday, September 7, making it an ideal time to ensure the seniors in our lives have the resources they need to stay safe and informed. Scammers constantly shift tactics to exploit older adults, but with the right tools and awareness, anyone—regardless of age—can stay one step ahead. BBB has collected key resources to help older adults, caregivers, and families recognize threats, prevent fraud, and make confident decisions.
“Protecting older adults isn’t just about stopping scams, it’s about strengthening families and communities,” said Mechele Mills, President & CEO of BBB Serving Central East Texas. “The more we share these resources, the safer we all become.”
BBB provides the following tips and tools to help make sure you and those you love feel confident and stay in control.
Know how to spot scams. Learn to recognize the red flags and deceptive tactics con artists use to trick older adults. Go to the BBB Resources for Older Adults Page on bbb.org.
Report and search for scams on BBB ScamTracker. This powerful tool is a database of reported scams, monitors trends and helps you file complaints should you ever need to.
Cease unwanted communications. Opt out of credit card and insurance offers by going to www.OptOutPrescreen.com,authorized by the major credit bureaus to process requests to stop unsolicited credit and insurance offers. Also register for the Do-Not-Call Registry at 1-888-382-1222.
Give with confidence. Go to give.org to confirm your donations are tied to the programs and charities you want to impact.
Recognize Abuse & Protect Vulnerable Adults. Understanding signs of abuse is critical. Abuse may be physical, emotional, financial, or neglectful. Indicators like unexplained injuries, isolation, financial manipulation, or poor living conditions can signal deeper problems.
Warning signs include:
- Unpaid bills or declining living standards
- Frequent unfamiliar or spam mail
- Behavioral change or secretive communications
- Physical injuries with vague explanations
Review your credit report. Individuals in the US can request a free credit report annually from Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion via annualcreditreport.com or by phone: 1-877-322-8228.
A Roadmap for Safe Aging
The BBB’s Older Adult Resources hub is a vital guide for staying informed and protected. This collection of awareness tools, practical tips, reporting mechanisms, financial safeguards, and community programs supports safe and empowered aging.
Whether for yourself or someone you care about, explore each section to build confidence, prevent scams, and take control of protection—all with trust you can rely on.
Grandparents Day is more than a celebration of family, it’s also a reminder of the responsibility we all share to protect and uplift the older adults in our communities. By using the resources available through BBB and our trusted partners, families can help loved ones stay safe from scams, make confident financial choices, and find trustworthy care. Taking time to share these tools with the seniors in your life not only honors them but also ensures they remain informed, independent, and connected.
For more information on how to prepare before and react to a disaster, go to BBB.org/disasters, BBB.org/storm and ready.gov. Please report fraudulent activity or unscrupulous business practices to BBB Scam Tracker. Remember, great businesses are out there. Always look for the BBB seal; it’s the Sign of a Better BusinessSM . Start with companies you can trust by going to bbb.org.