Senior Expo: Protect Yourself and Your Wallet

About the Program

Category: Human Services (Best in Category)

Year: 2009

To help battle a growing number of crimes against older adults, the County of San Diego’s Aging & Independence Services, in collaboration with the District Attorney’s Office and County Library, created “Senior Expo: Protect Yourself & Your Wallet” events held in various community libraries. The expos combine physical and financial self-defense techniques. A 70 year-old, 3rd degree black belt citizen teaches the first hour, showing ways to avoid trouble and what to do if you’re attacked. After the free lunch, representatives from Adult Protective Services and the District Attorney’s Office discuss ways to avoid becoming a victim of scams, fraud, and financial elder abuse. Participants receive a comprehensive booklet that details the information from the expo, plus a list of resource phone numbers. They are also given a whistle for their key chains. If participants turn in their evaluation, they receive a raffle ticket for a free shredder. The events have been funded by a grant from three local tribal governments.