Protecting a loved one with dementia from charity donation scams requires vigilance and practical steps because scammers often target vulnerable individuals who may have memory loss or difficulty recognizing deceit. People with dementia can be especially susceptible to fake charities that pressure them for quick donations or personal information.
Start by educating your loved one about common scam tactics. Explain that legitimate charities will never rush them to give money or ask for sensitive details over the phone or online. Encourage them to always verify any charity by checking official websites or calling a trusted family member before donating. It helps to keep a list of verified charities they can support safely.
Limit access to financial accounts by setting up joint accounts or trusts and appointing a trusted person with power of attorney. Regularly review bank statements and credit card activity to spot unusual transactions early. Keep important documents, passwords, and personal information secure and out of reach.
Telephone scams are common, where callers pretend to be charity representatives or government officials. Teach your loved one to never share personal information or payment details over the phone. If they receive a suspicious call, they should hang up and call back using a number they know is legitimate. Installing call-blocking or spam-filtering technology can reduce unwanted calls.
Online scams also pose risks. Even if your loved one does not use the internet much, they may be exposed through emails or ads shown by caregivers. Avoid clicking on suspicious links and ensure websites are secure by looking for “https” in the URL. Use monitoring tools to detect and block fraudulent activity.
When seeking in-home care or assistance, be cautious of fake caregivers or fraudulent agencies demanding large deposits. Always check references, licenses, and reviews. Confirm licensing with state or local health authorities and rely on recommendations from trusted sources.
Above all, maintaining open communication and regularly checking in can help catch scams early. Awareness and proactive measures are key to protecting someone with dementia from falling victim to charity donation scams.
Sources
http://www.citizenscrimewatch.org/scams-targeting-alzheimers-patients-and-their-families-how-to-recognize-and-protect-against-exploitation
https://www.fingerlakesdailynews.com/local/yates-schuyler-steuben-tompkins/schuyler-county-warns-seniors-holiday-scams-on-the-rise/
https://ergsy.com/information/why-are-elder-individuals-often-targeted-scammers
