Junk mail creates an annoying and potentially dangerous situation for older adults, especially if they have dementia or mild cognitive impairment. It’s not just about clutter; important bills or tax notices can get overlooked, leading to missed payments or double payments. Worse, your relative might fall victim to a financial scam or be tempted to buy things they don’t need.
Tackling this issue requires two steps.
Reduce unwanted mail getting to your loved one. Start with these services:
- Eliminate prescreened credit offers—a huge risk for identity theft—through OptOutPrescreen.com. This will also stop insurance offers that might otherwise confuse and worry your relative, especially those that mention “Medicare.”
- Cancel catalogs through catalogchoice.org.
- Take opt-out action on behalf of your family member through the DMAchoice.org “Caretaker” registry. You can also opt out of spam email.
If undesired mail continues to arrive, contact the companies directly to request removal.
Protect important mail. One option is to rent your loved one a private mailbox at a neighborhood mailbox store. This would keep important mail such as bills and personal letters from getting mixed with other mail. Consider going paperless for recurring expenses (this requires tracking bills online).
When sorting mail, have your relative throw away what’s not needed and shred anything that has sensitive information. Then, organize the “good” mail into categories. Start with bills that need to be paid, items that require follow-up, invitations, and coupons or useful catalogs. Review them weekly with your loved one.
If managing this process becomes too overwhelming or you are a long-distance caregiver, consider the services of a daily money manager. These bonded and insured professionals can manage mail and bills. This provides stress relief for you. And less financial risk and clutter for your relative. Peace of mind is priceless!
Is “snail mail” creating clutter?
Junk mail can lead to missed bills and potential scams, especially for older adults. At Delaware Palliative, we offer solutions to protect against financial risks. As the Delaware, and Delaware and Chester Counties in PA experts in family caregiving, we can help you stay organized and stress free. Call us to learn more at 302-478-5707.
