WILTON — The town is holding a Senior Resource Fair on Thursday to help the elderly avoid scams, protect their assets, get medical advice and talk to representatives of a number of agencies.
The annual event, held at the Wilton Public Safety Building, is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and is free.
The event has “one common goal,” Wilton Police Chief Heidi Wilcox said in a news release. She said the aim is “to bring resources to one location for easy access to our citizens of Franklin County.
“These topics are vital not only for the older community members but for the generation looking out for them. Bring your parents and your friends.”
Connie Jones, director of community services at Seniors Plus, said that with June being Elder Abuse Awareness month, “One of the most disturbing abuses today for older adults is the scamming that can catch people unawares.”
Jones said, “We all think we are savvy and could not be conned. However, there are evil people who make it their job to constantly change their tactics and find new ways to find a victim and take their money, their identity and their safety.”
She said the event “will arm older adults for the ongoing fight against this abuse. In addition, they will learn about their community partners who can offer protection and other resources.”
Speakers include Seniors Plus Legal Services for the elderly, police representatives from Wilton, Farmington, Franklin County and Jay and the Franklin County District Attorney’s Office.
Mt. Blue Pharmacy also will conduct medical consultations for those interested. Participants are asked to bring in their prescriptions as well as any out-of-date or unused prescription drugs for disposal.
The Franklin County Sheriff’s Department will discuss Elder Check, its program that’s designed to protect seniors who live alone and unassisted.
The program features intermittent home checks from deputies to ensure the participants are not being taken advantage of by scam artists, that their medications are kept safe and that their homes are secured for their own safety. The program also is designed to ensure seniors are not being used or abused by family or friends.
Wilcox stressed the social aspects of Thursday’s event. “Come for the resources. Come to talk to friends. Come to share concerns with your police chiefs. Come for lunch and pie.”
Douglas McIntire — 861-9252
dmcintire@mainetoday.com
Twitter: @CD_McIntire
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