For millions of Americans—especially seniors—relentless scam and robocalls have turned the home phone into a source of stress. These calls aren’t just irritating; they can cause real psychological harm, leading to anxiety, frustration, and fear of communication.
In this blog, we’ll look at how constant scam calls affect mental health and how landline call blockers can help bring back peace of mind.
How Widespread Are Scam Calls in the US?
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Americans lost over $10 billion to scams in 2024, and a large share originated from phone calls. Fraudsters exploit trust by posing as the IRS, Medicare, or banks.
Older adults are the prime targets:
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They often rely on landlines more than mobile phones.
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They may be less familiar with spoofing technology.
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Scammers target them with emotional manipulation and urgency.
The AARP Fraud Watch Network reported that one in five seniors has experienced phone fraud in the past year.
Summary: Scam calls are widespread in the US, with elderly Americans facing the highest risk due to reliance on landlines and emotional targeting by scammers.
What Are the Psychological Effects of Constant Scam Calls?
The emotional impact is often overlooked but deeply significant:
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Stress and anxiety: The constant ringing of unwanted calls can create chronic stress.
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Fear of answering the phone: Seniors may begin avoiding calls entirely.
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Shame and guilt: Those tricked by scammers often feel embarrassed and isolated.
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Sleep disruption: Anxiety about financial loss or repeated calls can affect rest.
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Loss of independence: Victims may feel incapable of managing their own affairs.
Example: A retired nurse in Ohio shared with the AARP that she unplugged her landline for months after being targeted by IRS impersonators demanding “immediate payment.”
Summary: Scam calls cause stress, shame, avoidance of communication, and even loss of confidence in handling daily tasks.
How Can Landline Call Blockers Help Protect Mental Health?
Call blockers act as a digital shield against unwanted calls. They automatically block known scam numbers and filter new ones before the phone even rings.
Benefits include:
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Drastically reduced scam exposure: Blocks up to 95% of unwanted calls.
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Restored confidence: People can answer calls without fear.
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Less stress and anxiety: Fewer calls mean fewer triggers for emotional distress.
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Improved safety for seniors: Protects vulnerable individuals from financial and emotional exploitation.
Devices like CPR Call Blocker and services such as Nomorobo are trusted solutions endorsed by consumer groups and widely used across the US.
Summary: Call blockers protect mental health by stopping scam calls before they ring, restoring confidence and calm for users—especially seniors.
Tips for Setting Up Call Blockers and Supporting Loved Ones
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Enable Caller ID: This allows the blocker to recognise and filter numbers effectively.
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Use whitelist mode: Only approved family and healthcare numbers ring through.
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Combine with carrier tools: Use AT&T ActiveArmor or Verizon Call Filter for extra security.
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Educate elderly relatives: Teach them never to share financial information over the phone.
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Encourage reporting: File complaints with the FTC or FCC.
Summary: Combine call blockers, carrier filters, and awareness training to reduce scam exposure and protect family wellbeing.
Conclusion
Scam calls don’t just target your wallet—they target your peace of mind. For many seniors, constant robocalls cause isolation, anxiety, and loss of confidence. A landline call blocker provides both protection and psychological relief, helping families feel safe again.
Explore CPR Call Blocker to protect your loved ones today.
FAQs
Q: Can scam calls really affect mental health?
A: Yes, they can lead to anxiety, fear, and reduced social interaction, especially in seniors.
Q: How effective are call blockers in reducing stress?
A: They stop most nuisance calls, making users feel safer and more in control.
Q: Do call blockers work with US landline providers?
A: Yes, most devices are compatible with AT&T, Verizon, Spectrum, and Xfinity.
Q: Who should I report scam calls to?
A: Report them to the FTC or the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
