Scam targets seniors with Lifeline offer

It seems there is a never-ending supply of scams out there to bilk seniors out of their money. The latest involves Lifeline.

“Rosscare is warning elderly residents to protect their important information if they are contacted in regards to acquiring personal emergency response services,” said Karen Sanborn, community relations specialist at Eastern Maine Healthcare.

“It has been reported that a woman in Maine was contacted by someone who claimed to be a representative of Lifeline services,” she said. “The caller asked the woman if she wanted Lifeline services, and then proceeded to ask for her bank account number for direct pay. The local sheriff’s department has been contacted, and it was quickly determined that the call was not from Lifeline.”

Rosscare’s Lifeline Response System offers a sense of security for those who live alone. The touch of a button, worn either as a necklace or bracelet, can summon help. Operators are available and answer the call in about 30 seconds. This device gives peace of mind to seniors

and others who may need immediate assistance in the event of a medical emergency or any other concern, such as suspicious noises outside. The Lifeline operator can call your emergency contact, an ambulance or the police.

“It is important to note that Lifeline does not solicit, cold call, and would never ask for bank account information over the phone,” said Sanborn. “There are many brands of personal emergency response systems, some of which have marketing similar to the Lifeline brand. If you or a loved one is approached by a person claiming to be a representative for a personal emergency response system, please check the credibility of the company. Rosscare’s recommendation is to never provide any personal information such as bank account numbers or your Social Security number over the phone.”

Sanborn offers a gentle reminder that sometimes it is hard to tell who is really on the other end of the phone. Protect yourself and keep your private information just that – private.

For more information about the real Lifeline, call 973-7094.

St. Joseph Healthcare also offers a personal response system, CallSafe. Information is available by calling at 262-1195.

It is not too late to apply for the Tax and Rent Refund program.

“Here at the H&R Block offices in Bangor and Brewer, we happily assist people with the Maine Property Tax and Rent Refund applications,” said Tracy Strathdee of H&R Block. “We do not charge for this service. These forms can be confusing and we try to take the stress out of it for people.”

Strathdee suggested that people bring the following to their appointments: an application booklet which has been received in the mail or can be picked up from their town office, a copy of their 2005 tax return, unless it was prepared in one of H&R Block’s Bangor or Brewer offices, and the amount of property tax or rent that they paid.

Call 947-0333 for an appointment.

Heads up: Open enrollment for Medicare Part D begins Nov. 15 and goes through Dec. 31. Eastern Agency on Aging is holding a number of clinics and also is offering some evening hours. To obtain information or to schedule an appointment, call 941-2865 and ask for Karyn Grass.

And lastly, as darkness falls, remember to wear some reflective clothing when going outdoors. Even at dusk, it is very hard to be seen by drivers. In an effort to keep seniors safe, Eastern Agency on Aging is offering highly reflective yet cute vests for a donation of $10 to cover costs. Get yours today and be safe out there.

Carol Higgins is director of communications at Eastern Agency on Aging. For information on EAA, call 941-2865, or toll-free (800) 432-7812, e-mail info@eaaa.org, or log on www.eaaa.org. For TTY, call 992-0150.