Alaska seniors lost $8M to scams as programs expand to meet growing population needs

Alaska led the nation in fraud complaints from seniors in 2024. Residents ages 60 and older reported 914.7 complaints per 100,000 people to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center. The rate resulted in $8.17 million in financial losses, according to a 2025 report by the Alaska Commission on Aging.

Tech support scams caused the largest losses. Fifty-five victims lost $3,036,319. Cryptocurrency was the leading method used to transfer stolen funds.

Growing senior population drives service changes

Alaska had 162,175 seniors ages 60 and older in 2025. That represents 21.9 percent of the state's total population. The 60-and-older population increased by 78 percent from 90,876 in 2010.

State and local agencies are responding to the demographic shift with new tools and programs aimed at helping seniors access services and support.

The Alaska Department of Health launched a new mobile-friendly Application for Services this week. The system allows Alaskans to apply for multiple public assistance programs directly from their phone. The application is available through the Alaska Connect Portal.

"This launch reflects the department's broader effort to modernize how Alaskans connect with public assistance services," said Commissioner Heidi Hedberg.

Applicants can use the online system to apply for MAGI Medicaid, Medicaid for Aged, Blind and Disabled, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Adult Public Assistance, Alaska Temporary Assistance Program, Senior Benefits, Long-Term Care, and General Relief Assistance. The online application replaces the previous paper form and SNAP-only online application.

Elder abuse awareness and community support

World Elder Abuse Awareness Day falls on June 15. The International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse launched the day in 2006. The United Nations recognized it as an observance in 2011. The National Center on Elder Abuse has opened registration for Health and Action for World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

The Tanana Chiefs Conference announced that applications are now open for the 2026 Elders Day of Caring in Fairbanks taking place July 13. Through the community-wide event, volunteers will assist Alaska Native Elders with projects like yard work, painting, technology help, safety improvements, and other small household tasks. The deadline to apply is Friday, June 12 at midnight.

The Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority is seeking public input through a stakeholder survey to identify key issues and themes for its State Fiscal Year 2028 budget development process. The deadline to complete the survey is Friday, May 29, 2026.