Scoop SENIOR
AUGUST 2025
Scam Season Alert Scam Season Alert
FBIWARNSOF‘SPIKE’INELDERSCAMSACROSSLASVEGAS
According to FBI officials, there has been a sharp increase in scams targeting older residents of the Las Vegas Valley in recent weeks With a high concentration of retirement communities and vulnerable individuals, scammers are increasingly preying on seniors, often under the guise of government agencies or family emergencies.
FBI Las Vegas Division Special Agent in Charge Rafaik Mattar emphasized that this trend mirrors a broader national surge in elder fraud. "In our community here, since there’s a lot of the retirement demographic, we see more of the elder-focused scams… We’ve really seen a spike in that in our community specifically,” he said
Common Scams Tatics
Local reports confirm several deceptive methods:
Medicare-relatedfraud:Callersoffer freemedicalmonitoringdevices(e.g., remotepatientmonitors)withoutany medicalneed,billingMedicarewithout consent
Emergencyimpersonations: Fraudstersposeasrelativesindistress orlaw enforcementofficerstodemand immediatemoney
Prize-winnerschemes:Seniorsaretold they'vewonaprizebutmustpayfees upfronttoclaimit.
Expert Advice
To protect seniors, law enforcement and support groups suggest following these tactics.
1 Hang up on unknown callers; Especially those claiming to be from Medicare or family in crisis
2 Verify before you act: Ask for official documentation, hang up, and contact trusted family or local partners
Local Support
Helping Hands of Vegas Valley is always here for you If we can not directly support you we will direct you to one of our various trusted partners in the Las Vegas Valley.
Remember that you are not alone, together we can make a difference
3. Verify before you act: Ask for official documentation, hang up, and contact trusted family or local partners
Where to Report?
Agent Mattar noted that even small reports can reveal patterns: Reporting a scam is the number one line of defense we then could look at it and see if there is a pattern
The following is trusted resources to submit your scam reports It is advises to report as soons as possible
FBI: Call 1‑800‑CALL‑FBI or submit reports online
HHS Office of Inspector General (OIG): Report suspected Medicare fraud via the OIG hotline or website
Nevada Aging & Disability Services Division (ADSD): Elder abuse and financial exploitation can be reported statewide at (702)486‑6930 for Clark County or (888)729‑0571 elsewhere
Summer is a beautiful time to enjoy longer days, fresh fruits, and social gatherings but it’s also important to care for our bodies while the sun is shining its brightest. Here are a few gentle reminders and sweet suggestions to help you stay well and enjoy every moment.
StayCool &Hydrated
Others
Summer is a reminder that sweetness doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it’s a slice of fruit, a warm breeze, or a phone call that makes the day a little brighter. Take care of yourself. You deserve every bit of the sweetness this season has to offer. Get Lots of Sleep
Your Body, Gently
Senior Summer Word Search
WORD BANK S P I C N I C H C E C R E A M I P A C H E S H I N E A A Y E A T S N D A X L E R T E A H L A K E K U X A S E L O N A A R K E S U V E
ANSWERSON LASTPAGE!
Peach Crisp
INGREDIENTS
4 cups sliced peaches (fresh, canned [drained], or frozen [thawed])
1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, brightens flavor)
1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup (1 stick) butter, cold and cut into small cubes
INSTRUCTIONS
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the peaches: Place sliced peaches into the baking dish. Add lemon juice if using and gently toss to coat.
Make the topping: In a medium bowl, mix oats, flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt Add the cold butter and use your fingers or a fork to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture looks crumbly.
Assemble: Sprinkle the topping evenly over the peaches.
Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 30–35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and peaches are bubbling.
Serve warm great with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream!
Healthy Home by Helping Hands
SUPPORTING OUR SENIORS
CLIENT STORY
August 2025 / Vol. 008
MR. D
LivinginMesquiteonafixedincomeisn'teasy,especiallywhenitcomestoputtinghealthyfoodonthe table. Before joining the rural grocery program, I often had to choose between buying food and covering other basic needs such as my medication. Fresh produce and protein were becoming luxuries I couldn’t always afford. Since enrolling in the program, that stress has lifted. Each month, I receive a reliable supply of groceries that help me take better care of my health. The variety of items ensures I have what I need to make hearty dinners, and the consistency has brought a sense of stability that I had been missing for a long time More than just the food itself, this program has given me peace of mind. I no longer have to wonder how I’ll make it through the month or what bill will go unpaid so I can have food on the table for me and my partner. I feel seen, supported, and hopeful. Thank you to Helping Hands of Vegas Valley for your commitment to rural communities like ours. Yourworkdoesn’tjustfeedusitrestoresourfaithinbrighterdaysahead.
Do
you
live in rural southern Nevada?
Ourruralgroceriesprogramisjustoneofthemanyserviceswe offertosupportourruralcommunities.Ifyouorsomeoneyou knowresidesinoneofourqualifyingruralareasandisinterested inreceivingrespiteassistanceornutritionalservices,pleasereach outtoourmainline.
SeniorSync
WHAT IS AI, AND HOW DOES IT HELP SENIORS?
Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is smart technology that helps machines make decisions, like a virtual assistant designed to make life easier. You may already use AI without even realizing it Devices like Alexa or Google Home can answer questions, play music, or remind you to take your medicine Streaming apps like Netflix and Spotify suggest shows or songs you might enjoy, and even your email uses AI to block unwanted messages
WHY AI MATTERS FOR EVERYDAY LIFE
AI can be especially helpful for seniors by offering medication reminders, assisting with directions, and making it easier to connect with doctors through telehealth. While it is a powerful tool, it is still important to use AI safely by protecting your privacy and asking a trusted friend or family member for help when setting up new devices. AI is not something to be afraid of. It is a tool to help you feel more connected, comfortable, and confident in your daily life.
Senior Summer Word Search
WORD BANK S P I C N I C H C E C R E A M I P A C H E S H I N E A A Y E A T S N D A X L E R T E A H L A K E K U X A S E L O N A A R K E S U V E
