August 2020

AUGUST 2020

COVER STORY

How to Help Older Adults Avoid Fraudsters During the COVID-19 Pandemic, pg. 18 GetRuralLeaderMag.com | AUGUST 2020 1

Contents

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Rural Leader Magazine, LLC is a digital publication that highlights every day people doing extraordinary things nationally and abroad. www.RuralLeaderMag.com www.GetRuralLeaderMag.com

About Us

Launched in March 2014, Rural Leader

Magazine, LLC is a digital publication with a mission to highlight every day people doing extraordinary things in business, education, music, community, art, sports, and leadership nationally and abroad.

Rural Leader Magazine honors exemplary individuals on a variety of levels, such as the 20 under 20 Honors, 40 under 40 Honors, Best Small Town Restaurant, Small Town America’s 100 Most Influential People, the Scholars of Collegiate Distinction, Fifty under Fifty, and the Eagle Elite Club.— Reproduction in any manner, in whole or in part, in English, or other languages, is prohibited without written consent.

Send editorial ideas to Kuanita Murphy, PhD, Editor-in-Chief editor@ruralleadermag.com Contact Us info@ruralleadermag.com editor@ruralleadermag.com

5 How do you prepare for the future when life is so uncertain now?

7 The Pandemic’s Financial and Emotional Toll on Americans

8 Five Steps Companies Might Consider Before Reopening Their Office Spaces 11 To beat COVID-19, Science Must Lead the Way: An inside Look at the Development of a Vaccine

14 How Teachers can Prepare for Successful Distance Learning This Fall 16 Healthcare Heroes You Haven’t Heard About COVER STORY 18 How to Help Older Adults Avoid Fraudsters During the COVID-19 Pandemic

21 Struggling to Make rent or Mortgage Payments Due to COVID-19? You have options.

23 Three Ways to Better Prepare for the School

12 How does telehealth really compare to in-person health care?

Tell us what you think about our publications, if you have a great idea for a story, or to just share. We may print your comments in Rural Leader Magazine. By sending us your comments, you’re giving permission to call you for an interview. Please be sure to include your name, address, email address, and phone number so we can reach you. Write to us at info@RuralLeaderMag.com— SUPPORT OUR VISION

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Editor’s Note Dear Readers, Inside this issue, there are a number of great articles about leadership best practices, building positive self-esteem and productivity! We hope you enjoy this issue.

As always, I hope you enjoy this issue and continue to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Google +, and LinkedIn. Thanks again for your continual support!

Sincerely, Kuanita E. Murphy, PhD Publisher/Editor-in-Chief

What you do matters. @RuralLeaderMag

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How do you prepare for the future when life is so uncertain now?

As the ongoing coronavirus pandemic continues to present health and economic challenges, it is difficult to focus on anything other than the present.

It’s important, though, not to lose sight of the years ahead and to take steps that can put you in a better position when we emerge on the other side.

The youngest baby boomers - the generation born between 1944 and 1964 - turned 55 last year. This, coupled with the uncertain job picture, means many of us are thinking more seriously about what we will need to successfully retire.

In the past, the years leading up to retirement have been a time of hope and optimism. We’ve looked forward to fulfilling our dreams of doing the things we might have missed while working, such as dedicating more time to family and friends, checking items off a bucket list, or even pursuing a meaningful second career.

However, many of the traditional assumptions about this phase of life have been challenged over the past decade, including the idea that we’ll retire at 65.

In fact, MetLife’s Evolving Retirement Model Study found nearly one in 10 workers (9%) never expect to retire. Many of us are choosing to continue working and, in light of the current situation, some who have already retired, especially those in health care, are even being asked to return to work.

What’s behind this change? It turns out that it’s more than just the current market volatility. Perhaps one of the most significant reasons is the decline in company-financed pensions. Many companies have shifted from defined benefit, or pension, plans, which promise retirees a monthly income benefit for life, to defined contribution (DC) plans. DC plans, such as 401(k)s, are the main source of retirement savings for most workers.

While employers often make contributions to these plans, workers are primarily responsible for their retirement security. With this in mind, there are three key steps you can take now to prepare for the years after you finish working regardless of whether that day is decades away or just over the horizon.

1. Create a plan to eliminate debt. Whether you carry a balance on a credit card, have student loans or a mortgage, start paying off your debts now. Reducing your monthly expenses not only allows you to save more for retirement, but also gives you more flexibility with how you spend money after you stop working.

2. Make retirement savings automatic, and don’t miss out on “free money.” Many employers offer a retirement savings plan, such as a 401(k), to their employees. The sooner you begin saving, the soon6

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er your savings can begin to build up over time.

Help your nest egg grow even faster by contributing enough to take full advantage of any matching contributions your employer offers. For example, your company might match 100% of your contribution, up to 6% of your salary. In other words, if you earn $50,000 a year and save at least $3,000, your company will match that amount by contributing $3,000 to your retirement as well.

3. Understand how your retirement savings translates into income. Take the time during your working years to understand how much income you might receive in retirement based on your retirement savings. The U.S. Department of Labor offers a simple retirement income projection tool that can help you get started. If you see that projections are falling short of where you think you might need them to be, consider filling the gap by increasing the amount you are saving. Additionally, if you are over the age of 50, you can make catch-up contributions to your 401(k) or individual retirement account.

MetLife’s Study also asked workers and retirees the age of the oldest person they know. On average, that person is almost 85 years old, and 45% of survey participants believe they’ll live that long too. Many of us can, therefore, expect to live 20 years - or more in retirement, and we’ll need our savings to last. The question is: Will we be able to enjoy a comfortable and secure retirement, especially during periods of market turmoil like we are experiencing now?

Having a predictable income can make a big difference and fortunately relief may be in sight. While many employers don’t yet offer guaranteed retirement income options in their 401(k) plans, a new law passed at the end of 2019 could change this. That’s good news, considering that 95% of workers and retirees say it’s important for retirees to have a source of guaranteed retirement income they cannot outlive.

MetLife’s Study was conducted online with 1,518 U.S. adults ages 33-75 who are either employed full time or retired and have access to a defined benefit or defined contribution plan through their current employer or the employer from which they retired. Data were weighted, where necessary, to align with actual population proportions. The Study was conducted by The Harris Poll between Aug. 19 and Sept. 6, 2019.—

The Pandemic’s Financial and Emotional Toll on Americans Unfortunately, no matter how hard some people work to be financially responsible, obstacles outside their control can sometimes prevent a person’s ability to keep up. In fact, Prudential’s 2020 Financial Wellness Census found that both before and during the pandemic, nearly half of Americans perceived their financial mobility as fixed. This means many don’t feel it’s within their power to improve their financial future, even in promising times.

Now that the pandemic has thrown the country into an economic tailspin, discouragement and anxiety are running high. Amanda Clayman, Prudential’s Financial Wellness Advocate, says that despite these unusual times when so many forces can seem to be outside your control, there are actions and mindsets you can put in place to help you feel mentally well and still hopeful.

Clayman offers the following tips: 1) Practice selfcare: The pandemic has created a perfect storm for burnout, endangering financial futures and threatening personal health. This stress can diminish your ability to think soundly. “We’re impulsive, tired and discouraged,” Amanda says. “The mental reserves meant for self-discipline are gone, affecting how we think and act.” Making room for self-care can revive your decision-making skills and provide the clarity needed to de-stress. Clayman encourages everyone to “Take care of yourself physically, mentally ... however, you need to avoid burnout. Take a walk, a bath or just give yourself a moment to breathe.”

2) Stay connected: Despite being apart physically or perhaps because of it, you still can lean on your personal communities for support. Begin by considering which communities fill an emotional need, and recognize that these needs may have changed since the pandemic. For example, if you are living alone, you may be craving more interactions featuring lively discussion than usual. Then get creative with methods of staying connected and strengthening bonds.

Clayman says, “Zoom calls, FaceTimes and conversations across the street may not be the same as a hug and conversation over coffee, but it’s still vital and

rejuvenating human contact, even if it’s unconventional.”

3) Act with purpose: Cultivating a sense of purpose can help you internalize that your actions matter. Systemic economic and societal challenges are dominating the news cycle, adding to a feeling of helplessness. It may seem counter-intuitive but this may be the best time to be self-centered. You may not have the power to fix the outside world but you can still reflect on what gives your life meaning and put purpose at the center of how you allocate your time and money. According to Clayman, “When so many external things seem to be holding us down, our purpose reminds us that we still have our own power to have a positive impact on the world, the people around us, and our own future.”

4) Set attainable goals: When you start to feel empowered to move forward, you can set some simple, achievable goals to tackle. It is important to remind yourself what is and is not in your control before setting expectations. Clayman advises to “realize that you don’t need to solve your challenges overnight.

Find the things that you can do and do them one at a time.”

Prudential’s Financial Wellness Census sheds light on a sobering fact: Too many people are feeling that financial mobility is not within their control, whether in good times or bad. This sense of stagnation, or in some cases, regression can lead to feelings of hopelessness. Conversely, focusing on what can be controlled - however small a task - can have the opposite effect of making you feel resilient and empowered.

You can work to prevent burnout by controlling how you care for yourself, connecting to your personal communities for support, cultivating a sense of purpose and setting some achievable goals. By owning your power over these aspects of life, you can find a path toward resilience and hope for the future.—

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Five Steps Companies Might Consider Before Reopening Their Office Spaces

After weeks of having employees work remotely whenever possible, many organizations are developing plans to reopen their physical workplaces.

For many business leaders, this is a challenging time as they try to determine how to reconfigure their offices after quarantine. Putting a plan in place may be the best solution.

A return-to-work plan may mitigate the closure of offices for additional and more enhanced cleanings, help prevent lost productivity and help reduce absenteeism. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that lost productivity due to absenteeism in the U.S. cost employers $225.8 billion annually - or $1,685 per employee - through a combination of direct and indirect costs.

To help position your business for a successful reopening, Stephen Mohan, EVP, Business Solutions Division for Office Depot, Inc., recommends considering: Site assessment.

Partner with a business solutions provider and conduct a site assessment. Details derived from an assessment of the site can help develop facilities 8

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plans, and programmatic cleaning strategies. It may help guide your change management strategies and your reconfiguration of the workspace with tools and equipment like physical barriers, entrance screening stations, space dividers, floor markings, and signage outlining traffic flow to facilitate social distancing.

High-touch surfaces.

Assess key areas used regularly by employees, including the lobby, work areas and offices, restrooms, cafeterias, elevators, storage spaces, high-traffic hallways and stairs, auditoriums, break rooms, classrooms/training rooms, parking garages, gyms and conference rooms. These areas may require additional cleaning or separate strategies.

Social distancing.

Currently the CDC recommends a minimum of 6 feet between people for proper social distancing.

This will likely mean reconfiguring many work areas, including cubicles, small-group collaboration spaces and larger meeting rooms with appropriate seating, capacity limitations and traffic pattern signs.

Touch-points and cleaning.

Determine how to limit touch-points in the workplace and enhance cleaning and disinfecting practices. Identify what cleaning products are appropriate for your business, such as stronger and more durable disinfectant wipes, DIY cleaning stations, low or touchless motion-activated solutions, and consider whether antimicrobial products or furniture may benefit your workplace.

Communications Consider how to have ongoing and transparent communication with your employees as you work through the phases of welcoming everyone back into the office. Provide employees with clear communication about safety and cleaning protocols through the use of digital and print signs, posters

and literature. You may want to maintain an opendoor policy for employees to voice their concerns or ideas for improving the workplace.

Learn more today.

Thoughtful planning and proactive action today will help build confidence with employees. Learn more at business.officedepot.com about how Office Depot can help organizations keep their businesses running smoothly while employees across the nation begin the process of returning to the workplace.—

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To Beat COVID-19, Science Must Lead the Way: An inside Look at the Development of a Vaccine Around the world, more than 10 million people have been infected with COVID-19, more than a half million have died, and thousands are still diagnosed daily. In an effort to stop its spread and eradicate COVID-19 forever, the global scientific community has been working together to develop a vaccine in record time.

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, research, development and distribution for a new vaccine could take up to 15 years. But today, healthcare companies around the world are racing against the clock to create a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine in a matter of months.

“This is an Apollo-13 moment on a global scale,” said Seema Kumar, Vice President Innovation, Global Health and Science Policy, Johnson & Johnson, referring to the heroic and herculean effort it took to save a precarious space mission. “The very best minds around the world are working around the clock, with extreme urgency, with great innovation and science and with great collaboration to save people everywhere.”

But what will it take to develop a COVID-19 vaccine? The Road to a Vaccine, a live digital series from Johnson & Johnson, goes behind the scenes to explore the COVID-19 crisis and the global community’s efforts to develop a working vaccination at a record pace. Journalist Lisa Ling hosts the series, which brings a broad range of experts from the scientific community, including scientists and frontline health workers, together with the public to discuss the world’s response to the pandemic.

Building off millions of video views in its debut season, The Road to a Vaccine enters its second season this month, diving further into truth, transparency and science of COVID-19 and the path to a potential vaccine.

What is the coronavirus? Coronavirus is a class of viruses in animals and humans. There are coronaviruses that cause the common cold and others that cause more serious sickness, such as the orig-

inal SARS virus in 2003, the MERS virus in 2012 and now COVID-19.

How is COVID-19 different? On the premiere episode of “The Road to a Vaccine,” Chief Scientific Officer for Johnson & Johnson, Dr. Paul Stoffels, said COVID-19 is different for two reasons: It’s spreading extremely fast and there’s no immunity.

Organizations are working tirelessly on a vaccine in hope of making one available next year. He says there is a great need for the global health community to ensure the vaccine is available to those most at risk, such as healthcare workers who care for ailing patients.

How does a COVID-19 virus enter healthy cells?

Dr. Rinke Bos, principal scientist, vaccines at The Janssen Pharmaceutical Companies of Johnson & Johnson, explains that the COVID-19 virus has spikes on the outside that are needed for it to enter the cell. She says that a successful vaccine would need to introduce antibodies that bind to those spikes so it could no longer penetrate a cell. When you inject a vaccine like this into healthy people, it signals the immune system to start making antibodies that do this.

How would a potential vaccine work? While there are different methods to create a vaccine, one potential option is to use a common cold virus that is changed so it can’t replicate in humans, meaning it won’t cause disease. However, it still serves as a carrier to bring in a piece of the COVID-19 virus to stimulate an immune response. This carrier would include the genetic code that creates antibodies that bind to the COVID-19 spikes, preventing it from penetrating a human cell.

Episodes of The Road to a Vaccine series are live Tuesdays at 12 p.m. EDT with recordings available immediately. The second season of the series debuts July 7. Learn more and view online at JNJ. com/RoadtoaVaccine, LinkedIn.com or Facebook. com.—

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How Does Telehealth Really Compare to in-Person Healthcare?

Following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in the United States, the adoption of telehealth services has been on the rise and people are turning to digital technology more than ever to address their personal health care needs without having to leave their homes.

But while many have begun to embrace telehealth offerings as a new way to connect to care and address their personal health needs, myths surrounding what telehealth services are intended for and how they compare to in-office visits continue to prevail.

To help determine how digital care can best meet health care needs during quarantine and beyond, here are the facts behind four common misconceptions about telehealth: MYTH #1: Telehealth is only for basic or urgent care needs.

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FACT: Telehealth can often be the first stop for preventive, primary care and other health and wellness needs. Patients can connect with a doctor or nurse practitioner to receive care for a range of acute, preventive and chronic care needs, including illness and injury, mental health services, and management of conditions like asthma, diabetes and more. Whether patients live in a rural area or simply want an easier way to manage their health, telehealth can adapt to their needs.

MYTH #2: There aren’t any telehealth providers in the area.

FACT: Many trusted local and national health care systems provide telehealth services across the nation.

Today, more than half of providers in the United States offer some form of telehealth service, accord-

ing to an April 22, 2020, Merritt Hawkins survey, “Physician Practice Patterns Changing as a Result of COVID-19.” Additionally, recent government, health system and reimbursement policy changes have improved patient access to telehealth services and are encouraging use as a safe way to access care during the pandemic.

In fact, locating telehealth providers is easier than ever before with platforms like Walgreens.com/ FindCareServices, which helps patients access care when and how they need it. Patients can choose from more than 30 telehealth providers treating over 100 conditions, while searching from the comfort of their own home. Available through an app and online, the platform makes it easy to find and compare available providers by location, preference, insurance coverage, services and price.

MYTH #3: Virtual care isn’t as good as in-person care.

FACT: Telehealth services can offer high-quality, convenient access to care. Much like face-to-face office visits, telehealth visits can facilitate a trusting, open dialogue with a doctor or nurse practitioner.

Most providers have a web-based interface or mobile app, making it easy to log onto and use secure, quality video for consultations and to visually help communicate about injuries or conditions.

Telehealth also reduces time spent in waiting

rooms and commuting to appointments, putting more power in the hands of patients. It can be particularly valuable for enabling remote monitoring and regular check-ins for patients with chronic conditions.

While telehealth can be a convenient alternative to in-person care, there are still instances where in-person appointments are recommended, such as in the case of a medical emergency. To consider the best option for care needs, check with a doctor.

MYTH #4: Telehealth is too expensive.

FACT: Telehealth and other services can help save money while expanding access to care. When looking for a telehealth provider, it can prove cost-effective to compare options based on pricing, insurance coverage, preferences and services provided. Look for telehealth options that list transparent pricing information to help guide the search.

If a consultation requires a prescription, Walgreens also has 24/7 pharmacy chat capabilities through its app and Walgreens.com/SaveOnRX with discounted pricing on a range of medications.

Telehealth is more accessible than ever as more providers evolve and adapt technologies to meet patient needs at a safe distance. But even as social distancing constrictions lift, digital wellness offerings will present greater flexibility and convenience in meeting individual health care needs.— GetRuralLeaderMag.com | AUGUST 2020 13

How Teachers can Prepare for Successful Distance Learning This Fall The COVID-19 pandemic has been the most disruptive event in the history of K-12 education, closing 120,000 schools and affecting 55 million students in the U.S. And educators have been challenged like never before. According to a survey commissioned

by University of Phoenix, K-12 teachers often felt overwhelmed and under-supported. Teachers reported spending almost as much time prepping for virtual teaching (3.13 hours) as they spent actively teaching (3.97 hours), and less than half (47%) felt that available training was good or excellent.

Having too much information could be as taxing as not having enough, making it difficult to determine which tools were best. Forty-one percent of teachers felt overwhelmed by the many resources provided to help them navigate virtual learning.

During the next 90 days, schools and teachers will develop their resources for teaching this fall.

“Most schools are beginning their preparation by learning from what they experienced when schools closed - what were they prepared for, and more importantly, where they fell short,” says Pam Roggeman, dean of the college of education at University of Phoenix. “There are a number of learning and communication tools available that provide meth-

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ods and space for education to happen, but tools are only as good as the teachers who are managing them.”

Roggeman offers tips for educators preparing for the upcoming year.

Conduct a needs assessment of yourself. “Before diving into the sea of free resources, apps, etc., first decide what you already know and then what you need to know to better serve the needs of your students,” advises Roggeman.

Stay positive, she says, and be open to adapting to changing needs and circumstances. Be willing to readjust plans when something isn’t working.

Learn from peers. Talk to colleagues, sharing notes about what worked this past term, and what didn’t. Explore articles and resources from educators who faced similar challenges.

“Tap into one of the best free resources - your peers,” says Roggeman. “Take this time to learn what sound distance learning looks like.”

Collaborate with administrators and school counselors to focus not only on teaching methods, but also supporting the mental wellness of students during this uncertain time.

Use resources designed in response to current circumstances

For example, the Virtual Teaching Academy, taking place June 26-July 1, is a free resource for K-12 educators, leaders and administrators who are seeking expert guidance and tangible insights on best practices for navigating the upcoming school year.

The Academy is hosted by The Alliance for Virtual Learning, a new initiative spearheaded by University of Phoenix and Blackboard - a leading education technology company for teaching, learning and student engagement - that unites a network of educators, experts and administrators who are shaping the blueprint for new education models that combine the best of virtual and classroom teaching.

Virtual Teaching Academy attendees will acquire necessary insights to create a blueprint to help their schools and districts prepare for the uncertain school year ahead.

Create a plan to stay connected to parents regardless of technology access level During this challenging time, parents and teachers rely on each other to educate their kids - the parent-teacher relationship is crucial for success of a child’s virtual education. Make a plan to stay connected with even the least technologically wellequipped homes.

“Technology is a tool for the educational process, not the answer to good distance learning,” says

Roggeman. “Many districts are dealing with how to reach all students, which includes solving access issues such as no Wi-Fi in the home or homes whose only ‘screens’ are cell phones.”

Creative thinking is key to helping families bridge the digital divide. Find low-tech ways to deliver curriculum and feedback, using telephone and mail communication, television and books. Help parents find internet access and ways to use a cell phone to access content.

Focus on the needs of each student. Every student has a different home situation and unique learning needs, which requires teachers to approach virtual learning with flexibility and empathy. Despite distance, many of the same best practices apply as in-classroom teaching: * Connect with students * Give meaningful academic feedback * Diagnose learners’ individual needs * Address the needs of the “whole” child Creating a plan for the upcoming school year is crucial in these uncertain times. By utilizing resources like the Virtual Teaching Academy and focusing on individual student needs, teachers can help students be more successful in their education - even at a distance.—

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Healthcare Heroes You Haven’t Heard About As the country continues to battle the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans are eager to celebrate healthcare workers on the front lines who cope with the disease every single day. You’ve probably heard countless stories of the amazing acts of kindness and courage exhibited by the doctors, nurses and other healthcare staff who are facing the virus head on.

But among the brave and selfless healthcare providers who put their energy, compassion and even their health on the line to give care to the suffering are many unsung heroes - the healthcare workers in long-term care facilities and nursing homes.

Their untold stories involve not only their capacity to acknowledge and mourn great loss, but also their dedication to providing the compassion and care required to help their residents persevere and recover.

In a time like this, they deserve recognition for their sacrifices.

Mother and daughter team In Indianapolis, mother and daughter team Lenore Williams and Aubrey Baker both work at long-term care facilities. Williams says that colleagues at CommuniCare, a national, family-owned company that operates long-term care, assisted living and rehabilitation facilities across the country, has helped hundreds of residents recover from the virus.

“Our division alone has recovered over 150 patients, and I think it has largely been due to the love and care our staff provides,” said Williams, a regional director of clinical care for CommuniCare.

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, long-term care facility employees have learned and implemented strict new protocols for bolstering resident and staff health and safety - including lockdowns that unfortu-

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nately keep residents apart from their loved ones.

“There are people who care about your family members that are in here. We are trying the best we can,” said Baker, a qualified medication aide at Wildwood HealthCare Center on Indianapolis’ east side. “They are very scared, and I try to tell them that it is going to be OK,” said Baker.

Baker tested positive for COVID-19 back in March but has fortunately since recovered. As soon as she was cleared to return to work, despite her mother’s wishes, she went back to the COVID 19 unit.

Care at long-term facilities goes way beyond COVID-19 Healthcare workers at care facilities provide vital daily care and assistance for those unable to care for themselves. They are dedicated to continuing to provide that quality care to the best of their ability - despite the dangers and challenges of the current pandemic.

“For our patients’ physical and mental well-being, we wake up every morning, put on our scrubs and protect our patients,” says Ashley Johnson, nurse at Landmark Nursing Home in Texas. “We reduce injury. We improve health. We work with recovery, post-operative care and sometimes assist with palliative care. We maintain skills in supporting someone with degenerative diseases. We help people develop, recover and improve skills needed for daily living and working. We help people communicate ‘I love you’ to their loved ones after a stroke. We improve quality of life and will continue to do so for our residents.”

Read inspirational stories of recovery and kindness, then send your own messages of thanks and encouragement to healthcare workers and residents in long-term care and assisted living at CareNotCovid.com.—

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COVER STORY

How to Help Older Adults Avoid Fraudsters During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Crises and upheaval have a way of bringing out the best - and, sometimes the worst - in society. That’s why, during this month focused on Elder Abuse Awareness and in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is important to protect the online information of senior and vulnerable friends and loved ones.

The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center has seen an increase in online extortion attempts as state governments have issued “stay-at-home” orders in response to the crisis. That comes at a time when The Better Business Bureau says fraudsters are targeting older populations in particular.

“Our elderly population are the wisest and most treasured members of our communities,” says DJ Johnson, Charles Schwab’s Senior Vice President of Corporate Risk Management. “However, they’re at a higher level of risk, not only due to possible physical complications with the virus, but also by being targeted by online scammers who have increased their efforts to defraud this susceptible group. As the senior population is confronted with challenging decisions, whether about visiting stores for groceries or isolating themselves from

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loved ones, criminals can prey on vulnerability from several fronts.”

Scammers have deployed several methods intended to trick individuals into sending money, disclosing personal information or downloading malicious software.

At Schwab, teams are trained to pay attention to behavioral cues that might be the result of an attempted scam.

Awareness of scams targeting seniors is key. While fraud can come in many forms, here are a few specific schemes that can be more targeted at the senior population: Emergency scams: Schemers misrepresent themselves as a family member requesting money for care, or requesting supplies to “stay afloat.”

Social Security: Scammers pose as someone from the Social Security Administration requesting payment or personal information to prevent benefits from being suspended or reduced.

Investment scams: Fraudsters promote investments in companies that claim to prevent, detect or provide a cure for COVID-19.

So now, more than ever, it’s important to stay in-

formed in order to detect signs of fraud. Added isolation can increase vulnerability to falling victim to a scam.

Tips: * Consult with family members and friends prior to acting on a request for funds. * Assign a trusted contact. * The Social Security Administration is not suspending benefits and will never request payment to receive them. * Perform extra due diligence when making investment choices. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Fake websites. People are turning to the internet for up-to-date information about COVID-19 and to purchase goods that either cannot be found in stores or as an alternative to shopping in person.

To take advantage of this, fraudsters set up websites to offer goods or services, such as protective gear (gloves and face masks), cleaning products, vaccines, testing kits and home delivery services. They then use these sites to collect payment and personal information with no intention of delivering the goods and services. This data is used by the fraudsters, or sold to other criminals on the dark web.

Tips: * Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), or coronavirus.gov, or contact your physician for information regarding COVID-19. * Avoid visiting pages offering cures or vaccines. * Go directly to websites by entering a trusted URL address into your browser. * Avoid using phone numbers for companies found through general web searches. * Read site reviews regarding product delivery and purchases. The reviews may indicate if a site is selling counterfeit products.

Phishing. Phishing is the fraudulent practice of sending emails or texts purporting to be from reputable sources to persuade individuals to reveal personal infor-

mation, such as login credentials.

Tips: * Be suspicious of any email or text that requests your personal information. * Hover over links to check validity, or visit websites directly by entering a known URL address into your internet browser before logging in or accessing material. * Help ensure a website is secure before entering personal information. * Do not click or download suspicious or unknown attachments, and be wary of attachments even from people you know.

Impersonations. Impersonation fraud schemes are used by impostors to obtain personal information and request fraudulent payments. The scam may begin with a phone call, email, computer pop-ups, text or other communication. Fraudsters are employing pandemic-related robocalls, claiming to be associated with charities, insurance companies or businesses offering products or cures. Some calls even offer cleaning services for your home. Impostors may pretend to be government officials and try to capitalize on the extended tax-filing date and proposed economic-stimulus checks.

Tips: * Avoid answering calls from unknown numbers. * Hang up if you do answer a call that’s unusual. Don’t press any buttons because this could lead to more calls. * Don’t supply personal, account or payment information, especially if you feel you’re being pressured. * Never send money in response to a robocall or social media message.

For information on more ways to educate and protect yourself and your elderly family members from cybercrimes, visit schwab.com/schwabsafe/security-knowledge-center.—

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Struggling to Make rent or Mortgage Payments Due to COVID-19? You have options.

If you’re having trouble making your rent or mortgage payment due to the economic upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, you’re not alone.

Millions of Americans have lost their jobs, been furloughed, had their hours reduced or have had to take time off work due to illness or to care for a family member - with or without pay.

The good news? There’s help for both renters and homeowners. Unfortunately, many don’t know about the assistance available to them.

“As we confront these unsettling times, it is important to help keep people in their homes,” said Malloy Evans, Senior Vice President at Fannie Mae, the government sponsored enterprise that finances about one in every four homes in the U.S. “It is important to provide homeowners and renters with the information they need to take advantage of the housing payment relief options that are available.”

To raise awareness of housing assistance options, Fannie Mae created “Here to Help,” an online portal offering resources and tools with clear information on what people should do if they are worried about paying their mortgage or rent during this challenging time.

For Homeowners. If you’re having trouble making your mortgage payments due to COVID-19, and if your mortgage is backed by a government sponsored enterprise, such as Fannie Mae, you are entitled to a temporary postponement of your mortgage payments, called “forbearance.” Forbearance does not erase the amount you owe, but it allows for reduction or suspension of your mortgage payments for up to twelve months. You will not be charged late fees during forbearance as long as you stick to the plan’s agreed terms.

To request forbearance or other mortgage assistance, contact your mortgage servicer - the company that manages your monthly mortgage payments.

While you will eventually have to make up the payments you missed during your forbearance plan, you are never required to pay it back all at once unless you are able to do so. Other options include a repayment plan, which allows you to gradually catch up on the missed amount over a period of time, or payment deferral, which keeps your monthly pay-

ments the same by moving the missed amount to the end of the loan term with no additional interest. If you have experienced a permanent impact to your ability to make your current mortgage payment, you may qualify for a loan modification, which could reduce your monthly payment by extending your loan over a longer period of time.

For Renters. If you currently rent and need help managing your payments, your first step should be talking to your landlord or property manager about available options. Be sure to keep all mail, email or text correspondence with your landlord, and make detailed, dated notes of any conversations you have in person or over the phone. Ask about payment arrangements, such as a temporary rent reduction.

Remember that these may be stressful financial times for your landlord, too. Try to communicate the facts about your situation clearly and calmly.

The owners of multifamily rental properties financed by Fannie Mae or other government-backed financing can seek forbearance and extended repayment plans to help deal with COVID-19 impacts.

For renters in those properties, there are a number of additional protections: You cannot be served with an eviction notice solely for nonpayment of rent, and you cannot be charged late fees or penalties. You will still need to pay the rent that is owed, but your landlord must give you flexibility to repay over time.

Navigating Broader Financial Challenges. Importantly, homeowners with a Fannie Mae-financed mortgage and renters in a Fannie Mae-financed multifamily property (5+ units) qualify for free access to housing counseling approved by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The counselors provide free personalized assistance to help you navigate broader financial challenges you may be facing so you can return to normal faster.

For more resources and information about your rights as a homeowner or renter during the COVID-19 pandemic, and to determine if your home or multifamily apartment building is financed

by Fannie Mae, visit KnowYourOptions.com.—

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Ways to Better Prepare for th School Year

The beginning of a new school year always means change, but this back-to-school season will look a bit different. Whether students are taught virtually or in a classroom environment, it will create challenges for teachers, families and kids alike. Kleenex® brand child wellness expert and board-certified attending family physician, Deborah Gilboa, M.D., weighs in with her top tips for families to help prepare for the upcoming school year.

Identify the right resources. One thing in high demand for teachers this year is support from communities. It’s important to ensure teachers have the resources they need to lead student learning for both online and in-person settings. Everything from basic supplies to materials that promote learning and overall well-being can help kids manage stress, but teachers often need help acquiring those supplies. That’s why Kleenex® brand is donating up to $1.2 million in 2020 to fund requests from teachers on the education nonprofit crowdfunding site DonorsChoose.

“When students have the resources they need to learn and stay well, achievement can thrive,” said Charles Best, founder of DonorsChoose. “This upcoming school year holds many unknowns for educators, and we’re grateful for this support from Kleenex® brand, which has helped equip over 2,500 teachers and 176,500 students with materials they need to continue learning.”

Prepare for a new routine. A big part of going back to school is getting into a new routine as a family and being flexible knowing things will continue to change. Gilboa recommends introducing a similar school schedule weeks before school starts, so parents are able to help children adjust and make changes as needed.

“Having kids practice what is expected of them with these new guidelines will help them feel more

prepared when it’s time for school to start,” says Gilboa. “Whether it’s packing their backpack or starting the morning with structured activities such as reading or coloring, having this routine will help kids transition better into the school year.”

Don’t underestimate a child’s stress. Research shows that most elementary school children report some symptoms of nerves or anxiety around returning to school each year. In these unprecedented times, those numbers are expected to rise dramatically. According to Gilboa, the biggest signs of stress to look out for in kids include behavior, sleep and appetite changes, difficulty with normal communication, or not enjoying things they normally do.

“Kids will pick up on their parents’ stress leading up to the school year, so it’s important to remember to manage your stress and reactions appropriately,” said Gilboa. “To help understand your kids’ true feelings, ask questions to encourage them to share good and bad experiences. This way, when your child is going through something stressful, they have the practice and expectation that they can talk about it with their parents.”

Parents can start by encouraging kids to share a couple of good things that happened in the day, and also a challenge. Questions could include “what moment made you smile today” or “tell me about a moment you wish you could erase.”

The upcoming school year will feel overwhelming but taking extra time to understand and communicate with kids and their teachers will help everyone feel more in control and prepared for the school year.

To join Kleenex® brand in funding the resources needed for students and teachers this year, please visit DonorsChoose.org/Kleenex.—

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