19th April 2008, 13:15 WST
A specialised education kit for WA seniors who may be vulnerable to scammers was launched on Thursday.
The user-friendly resource contains examples of real-life scams and important advice to prevent elderly people from becoming victims of fraud.
“Alzheimer’s Australia WA put the kit together after receiving $50,000 from the State Government’s Criminal Proceeds Fund to undertake a survey about the type and frequency of scams targeting elderly people, in particular those with dementia,” Communities Minister Sue Ellery said.
“The research report has guided the development of the education kit, which contains a copy of the report, samples of different types of scams, pro forma letters and tips to help identify and avoid scams.”
She said it was concerning that fraudsters preyed on the vulnerable and weak and were increasingly targeting people who suffered from dementia or Alzheimer’s because they were seen as easy targets.
“Scams can have a devastating effect on elderly people who, in good faith, hand over their hard-earned savings and then realise that they will never see their money again,” she said.
The Scam Education Kit is being distributed to community groups and aged-care residential facilities and is available by phoning Alzheimer’s Australia WA on 9388 2800 during business hours.
SOURCE: southwestNews
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