Mild Cognitive Impairment Quick Facts •

35% of Americans over age 71 have Mild Cognitive Impairment or some form of dementia.

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MCI is often hard to diagnose, as it doesn’t affect most normal day-to-day functions.

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However, those with MCI are 4x more likely to make a financial mistake.

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MCI reduces risk aversion and increases feelings of generosity and carelessness with finances.

Contact Us!

www.dora.colorado.gov/dos

303-894-2320

Spot and Stop

Investment Fraud

What’s at stake? •

10,000 people turn 65 every single day in the U.S.

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The 65+ population holds 2/3 of the country’s investible assets.

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Those over age 55 also account for over 2/3 of investment fraud victims.

Who’s at risk? •

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Seniors who are financially exploited have a mortality rate 3x higher than those who are not. Other effects include depression, health problems, and further loss of money to legal fees or revictimization.

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Bereavement or a recent health event puts seniors at greater risk for fraud. Isolation can often cause a victim to lose money by placing unearned trust in a stranger. Seniors who are still financially responsible for others, like adult children or grandchildren, are at a vastly higher risk of exploitation. Seniors who have developed dementia or even mild cognitive impairment are highly vulnerable.

What are the warning signs? •

A senior might seem stressed or unusually emotional.

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Overly suspicious or frightened behavior can be a warning sign.

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Be vigilant of caretakers, especially if they seem dominant over the elder.

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Watch for changes in hygiene or appearance, and also for potential cognitive problems, even if they seem minimal.

If you suspect someone you know has been a victim of investment fraud, contact the Division of Securities at (303) 894-2320.