In this powerful episode of Walks with Mom, host Kimberly Akers sits down with her mom, Karren Akers, to have an honest and important conversation about a growing issue impacting older adults across the country—senior scams and financial fraud.

With reports showing that adults over 60 lost $16.6 billion to scams in 2024, the problem has become more sophisticated, more aggressive, and far more emotionally manipulative than many families realize. But as Kim and Karren explain, seniors do not fall victim to scams simply because they are lonely or unaware. The reality is much deeper.

This episode explores the real reasons seniors are targeted and why scams can be difficult to recognize as we age. From the rapid pace of technology changes to the overwhelming number of urgent emails, phone calls, and text messages demanding immediate attention, older adults are navigating a world that moves faster than ever before.

Kim and Karren also discuss the emotional and generational factors that play a role. As confidence shifts later in life and systems change quickly—from banking to online communication—it can become harder to determine what is legitimate and what is manipulation. Many older adults were raised in a time when answering the phone or responding to requests for help was simply the right thing to do, which makes today’s scam tactics even more confusing.

This conversation shines a light on the hidden layers behind elder fraud, including emotional manipulation, cognitive overload, and the generational gap in how people learned to filter information and recognize danger signals.

More importantly, the episode offers a compassionate approach to discussing scams with aging parents and loved ones. Rather than placing blame, Kim and Karren share ways families can work together to build awareness, strengthen communication, and create practical strategies that protect seniors while preserving dignity and independence.

If you care for an aging parent, work with seniors, or simply want to better understand how scams are evolving, this episode provides valuable insight, language, and perspective to help families navigate this growing issue together.

Come with us as we explore what it means to navigate these years with our aging loved ones.

So grab a cup of coffee—or maybe a glass of wine—subscribe, invite your friends or family, and join us for Walks with Mom.

Special thanks to our Sponsor Amada Senior Care Mesa serving families and seniors in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Chandler, Mesa, and the surrounding East Valley area. Accredited VA Provider (NPI # 1558048199) and Trusted resource for Long-Term Care Insurance Claims

Compassionate, personalized in-home senior care starts here – contact Amada Senior Care Phoenix today by phone at (480) 418-5422 or visit us online to get started and give your loved one the support, dignity, and independence they deserve.
www.amadaseniorcare.com/mesa-senior-care