February 2019
Volume 26 Number 1
FREE
Like us on Facebook for more news and updates by searching for our name, Pittsburgh Senior News.
Be the first to know when news happens To receive a digital copy of our publication each month please send us an email at pghseniornews@icloud.com
Do you need help with Caregiving? Mike Feeney’s volunteer work is helping keep local seniors safe.
Oakland senior works hard to help prevent fraud in our region By Gina Mazza For Pittsburgh Senior News
When Mike Feeney started
volunteering in Allegheny County District Attorney Stephen Zappala, Jr.’s office, elder fraud, identity theft and phone scams were not as prevalent as they are now. Unfortunately, incidences of these types of crimes have steadily been on the rise as criminals become more sophisticated with their tactics. “When I started this work 11 years ago, people weren’t as aware of these types of
fraud,” Mike comments. “For instance, when someone calls you on the phone, most people figure that the person calling is as honest as they are, which is not the case. That’s why it’s important to get the word out.” Mike, 82, does just that. Through his work in the DA’s Senior Justice program, he travels on a regular basis to senior living communities, apartments and centers to inform older adults about being on the alert. “I’m quick witted so I tell a joke and it gets them listening. We’re doing the best we can but some
of these [fraudulent] calls are coming from out of the country so we can’t make arrests. That’s another reason why it’s important to be in the know. Now even the younger generations are getting involved because they’re being targeted, too.” In addition to his work in the DA’s office, Mike volunteers at Shadyside Hospital. “About 10 years ago, I had open heart surgery and lung cancer all in the same week. I survived and now I enjoy going to talk to the cancer patients. I keep them laughing. Continued on page 13
* Visit our website at pittsburghseniornews.com to view our 2019 Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide * Turn to the Allegheny County Area Agency on Aging for assistance. Download a copy of their caregiver guide at alleghenycounty.us/Human-Services/About/Offices/Area-Agency-on-Aging.aspx.
Do you have an event to share? If you would like us to publicize an event in Allegheny County, send information by the 10th day of the month prior. All submissions will be reviewed and every effort will be made to run qualified submissions if page space is available. All submissions should be emailed to pghseniornews@icloud.com.