By SDCN Staff
San Diego, CA–The County of San Diego is recognizing Older Americans Month with a renewed focus on healthy aging, wellbeing and fraud prevention as the region’s older population continues to grow.
This year’s theme, “Championing Your Health,” encourages residents to prioritize physical, mental and emotional wellness at every stage of life.
County officials said adults age 85 and older are now the fastest-growing age group in San Diego County, increasing concerns about scams and financial exploitation targeting seniors.
According to the San Diego Elder Justice Task Force, approximately 1,800 older adults in the region were victims of fraud in 2025, resulting in losses exceeding $140 million. Officials said the total likely is higher because many cases go unreported due to fear, shame or embarrassment.
“Fraud targeting older adults can be financially devastating, but there also are long-term consequences to their mental and physical health like severe depression, anxiety, insomnia and intense feelings of shame or self-blame,” said Allison Boyer, director of County Aging and Independence Services. “Victims may suffer from higher blood pressure, accelerated cognitive decline, and even the inability to afford housing or medication.”
To help combat fraud, the San Diego Scam Jam Tour will present a series of free educational events in 12 cities across the county.
Hosted by AARP and supported by the County of San Diego’s Scam and Fraud Education Support Team, the three-month tour will feature presentations from fraud experts and interactive learning sessions designed to help older adults recognize and avoid scams.
Participants will learn about common tactics used by scammers, as well as practical steps for protecting personal information and finances.
County officials are also encouraging residents and family members to download the “Don’t Get Hooked” fraud prevention toolkit, which is available in multiple languages. The resource includes information on identifying scams, reporting fraud and protecting loved ones from financial exploitation.
Additional resources are available through the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office, including its “Stop. Hang Up. Tell Someone.” awareness campaign and educational materials outlining common scams targeting older adults.
