When caring for a person with dementia, tracking suspicious purchases is an important way to protect their financial well-being. Dementia can affect memory, judgment, and decision-making, which may lead to unusual spending patterns or vulnerability to scams.
Start by regularly reviewing bank and credit card statements to spot any large, repetitive, or unusual purchases. Look for extravagant orders, multiple subscriptions, or unfamiliar charges that the person may not remember making. These can be signs of impaired financial judgment or potential fraud. If money seems to disappear or cash is unaccounted for, it could indicate confusion about transactions or difficulty managing finances[1].
Keep an eye on changes in financial habits. Someone who once carefully tracked their spending might suddenly stop budgeting or lose interest in managing money. Repeated questions about recent transactions or difficulty with simple math tasks like calculating tips or filling out forms can also signal cognitive decline affecting financial skills[1].
To help protect your loved one, consider setting up joint account oversight or alerts for large or unusual transactions. This allows you to monitor activity without completely removing their independence. Consulting a financial advisor experienced in elder care can provide guidance on managing finances safely. It is also important to coordinate with healthcare providers to support diagnosis and care planning[1].
Be aware that seniors with dementia are often targets of scams. Watch for suspicious phone calls, emails, or pop-up messages that pressure for personal information or payments. Scammers may impersonate trusted organizations or offer fake products like counterfeit medications or anti-aging treatments. Educate your loved one about these risks and encourage them to check with family before making unfamiliar purchases, especially online[2][3].
By staying vigilant and involved, you can help detect suspicious purchases early and protect the dignity and security of the person with dementia.
Sources
https://www.olderaleighfinancial.com/orfg-resources/when-memory-and-money-intersect-signs-of-dementia
https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/P144400-OlderAdultsReportDec2025.pdf
https://www.seniorliving.org/research/common-elderly-scams/
