Why Security Conversations with Seniors Can Be Challenging (And How to Improve Them)

Maria wanted to help her 78-year-old father protect himself from online scams after he nearly fell victim to a Medicare fraud scheme. But when she brought up the topic, his response surprised her: “I’ve been managing my affairs for decades. I don’t need my daughter telling me how to use a computer.” Her well-intentioned conversation had immediately hit a wall of resistance.
This scenario plays out in countless families. Conversations about digital security, scam prevention, and online safety often become unexpectedly charged when discussing them with older adults we care about. What begins as an attempt to help can quickly transform into a tense exchange that leaves both parties frustrated and the underlying security concerns unaddressed.