Protecting personal information for someone with dementia requires careful attention because cognitive decline can make it harder for them to recognize risks or manage their own data privacy. Here are practical steps to help safeguard their sensitive information.
First, limit access to personal documents and digital accounts. Keep important papers like Social Security cards, bank statements, and medical records in a secure place. Use strong, unique passwords for online accounts and consider using a password manager controlled by a trusted caregiver. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible to add an extra layer of security.
Second, monitor financial and medical activities regularly. Set up alerts on bank accounts and credit cards to detect unusual transactions early. Review medical bills and insurance statements to catch errors or fraud. If the person with dementia has an electronic health record, ensure that only authorized caregivers and healthcare providers have access, as healthcare data is especially sensitive and protected under laws like HIPAA[1].
Third, educate family members and caregivers about privacy risks. People with dementia may be vulnerable to scams, phishing, or identity theft. Teach caregivers to recognize suspicious calls, emails, or requests for personal information and to never share passwords or sensitive data over the phone or online unless they are certain of the recipient’s identity.
Fourth, use technology wisely. Some AI tools and smart devices designed for dementia care can help monitor health and safety but must be chosen carefully to protect privacy. Ensure any digital tools comply with privacy regulations and use encryption to safeguard data during transmission and storage[1]. Avoid sharing more information than necessary with apps or services, and review privacy policies to understand how data is used.
Fifth, consider legal protections such as power of attorney or guardianship to allow trusted individuals to manage financial and healthcare decisions securely. This legal authority can help prevent exploitation and ensure that personal information is handled responsibly.
Finally, maintain open communication with healthcare providers about privacy concerns. They can help implement secure systems for managing medical information and advise on best practices for protecting patient data in dementia care[1].
Sources
https://dialzara.com/blog/ai-chatbots-for-dementia-patients-benefits
https://availhealthcare.co/privacy
