Online Safety Concerns for Dementia Patients
People with dementia face growing risks when using the internet or digital tools. Their memory loss and confusion make them easy targets for scams, privacy breaches, and misuse of personal data. Caregivers often worry about these issues while trying to support daily needs through online services.
One big worry is falling for online scams. Those with young onset dementia, which starts before age 65, are especially at risk in online peer support groups. They might share personal details or click bad links without realizing the danger, leading to fraud or stolen money. Caregivers note that limited digital skills add to this vulnerability, as patients may not spot fake offers or phishing emails.
Privacy in telemedicine is another concern. Video calls with doctors help older adults with dementia get care at home, but some fear data leaks. Caregivers trust healthcare teams yet hesitate due to past bad online experiences or poor understanding of security. They worry about hackers accessing health info shared during sessions. Studies show most feel safe with trusted providers, but connection glitches and complex apps make things harder, especially for older caregivers with low tech skills.
At-home tech devices bring more risks. Internet of Things gadgets like trackers reduce fears of patients wandering off, using Bluetooth signals from crowdsourced networks. Still, constant video monitoring raises red flags. Families reject 24/7 cameras most often, with only 13 percent okaying it for mild dementia cases. People want control over who sees video feeds, fearing misuse of sensitive home footage.
Even simple online tests for memory issues can mislead. Direct-to-consumer Alzheimer’s blood tests promise quick answers but spark privacy fears. Users send samples without doctor guidance, risking inaccurate results and exposed health data. Experts warn against self-diagnosing alone, as it ignores full checkups needed for complex conditions like dementia.
Caregivers juggle these dangers while handling meds, bills, and family talks online. Tools like care platforms aim to help with planning and resources, but safety vigilance stays key. Training on basic digital habits, simple device setups, and scam spotting can protect patients. Family support makes online tools safer, letting dementia patients benefit without big risks.
Sources
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12733021/
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/dementia/articles/10.3389/frdem.2025.1722518/full
https://umaine.edu/news/blog/2025/12/08/new-study-invites-those-who-support-loved-ones-with-memory-loss-to-test-caregiver-platform/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12752911/
https://dl.acm.org/doi/full/10.1145/3733801.3764205
https://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/at-home-alzheimers-blood-tests/
https://www.centerforneurologyandspine.com/post/how-memory-concerns-are-evaluated-and-where-ai-fits-in
