The following letter was recently sent to older adults living in the 42nd District:
I recently came across some insightful information that addresses some issues faced by older adults and seniors. I want to share this information with you, and let you know that if you ever believe you have been a target of a scam, of identity theft, or feel your right to vote is being compromised in any way, my office is here to help. I can be reached by email at Grant@ilhousegop.org, or by phone at (331) 218-4182.
Internet Safety
Instances of fraud are on the rise, and bad actors often target seniors for their scams. While some scammers use the phone to trick people into divulging their personal information, Internet scams are growing in popularity.
Every year, seniors are scammed out of tens of billions of dollars, money they’ve spent their entire lives saving only to have it stolen. The elderly have always been a prime target for Internet scams because of a perceived vulnerability, and now because Internet use among seniors is on the rise. A Pew Research Center survey showed that 67% of seniors are now regular Internet users.
Internet security is something everyone should prioritize, regardless of age, so it’s important to be aware of current threats and how to deal with them. With so many people online, the magnitude of scams is increasing. Please click on the link below to learn more about how criminals take advantage of people through online scams.
https://www.safetydetectives.com/blog/the-ultimate-internet-safety-guide-for-seniors/
Protecting Your Right to Vote
Senior citizens can face unique challenges with the electoral process. These can include sensory and mobility challenges, access to transportation, or a residence change that places an older adult in a new voting jurisdiction.
The federal Voting Accessibility for the Elderly and Handicapped Act (VAEHA) is designed to assure that your fundamental right to vote is protected. The Act requires polling places to provide access and assistance for elderly and handicapped voters. Please use the link below to learn more about your rights as an eligible voter.
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1zRDqB5pE_1Ps4y90dfDLjpuUo3EuLx_x/view?usp=sharing
This year, the legislature expanded the state’s vote by mail program. If you voted in any election during the last three years, you should receive a ballot application in the mail sometime soon. In theory, if you fill out the application and send it in, your fall 2020 ballot will be mailed to you and you can vote at home and mail your ballot back.
I did not support the bill that expanded vote by mail in Illinois because the bill did not include steps that prevent voter fraud or that protect the actual ballots from theft or tampering. I still believe voting in person on Election Day or through early voting, or absentee voting are the safest ways to ensure your ballot is received and counted. The link below will take you to the DuPage County Clerk’s election services page.
https://www.dupageco.org/election/
If you have questions about the logistics of voting (ethics laws prohibit me from recommending candidates), you can call my office any time with questions.