Keeping Seniors with Dementia S.A.F.E. from Scams

Older adults living with dementia are often at a higher risk for scams and financial fraud due to changes in memory, judgment, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities. Unfortunately, scammers frequently target seniors through phone calls, emails, text messages, social media, and even in-person interactions. In fact, the FBI reports that scammers steal an estimated $7 billion from senior citizens each year, making older adults one of the most vulnerable populations for financial exploitation.

As caregivers, family members, and healthcare professionals, it’s important to take proactive steps to help protect vulnerable seniors while still supporting their dignity and independence. One simple way to remember these important strategies is through the acronym S.A.F.E.

S — Solidify Good Security Practices

Building strong daily security habits is one of the best ways to reduce the risk of fraud.

Helpful tips include:

• Use strong, unique passwords for banking and online accounts
• Avoid sharing personal or financial information over the phone
• Teach seniors to never click suspicious links or open unknown emails
• Keep important documents in a secure location
• Encourage shredding mail containing sensitive information
• Regularly review account statements for unfamiliar charges

Consistency and repetition are important for seniors with dementia, so keeping routines simple and clear can help reinforce safer habits.

A — Apply Blocking Tools

Technology can be a valuable tool in preventing scams before they ever reach your loved one.

Consider using:

• Call-blocking devices or smartphone spam filters
• “Do Not Call” registry enrollment
• Email spam filters
• Fraud alerts from financial institutions
• Privacy settings on social media accounts
• Limiting unknown callers directly through cell phone settings

Reducing exposure to scam attempts can significantly lower the chances of someone with dementia becoming overwhelmed or manipulated.

F — Find Someone to Help Monitor Financial Activity

Having a trusted support person involved can make a major difference in catching suspicious activity early.

This may include:

• A family member
• Trusted friend
• Financial advisor
• Caregiver
• Durable power of attorney

Monitoring can involve:

• Reviewing bank and credit card statements
• Watching for unusual purchases or withdrawals
• Tracking unpaid bills
• Identifying sudden changes in spending habits

Early detection is critical when it comes to preventing larger financial losses.

E — Establish Stronger Financial Safeguards

As dementia progresses, additional protections may become necessary to help preserve financial security.

Some options include:

• Setting spending limits on accounts
• Creating automatic bill payments
• Using prepaid cards with limited balances
• Consolidating accounts to simplify monitoring
• Adding a trusted contact person to financial accounts
• Establishing legal protection such as powers of attorney or trusts

These safeguards can provide peace of mind for both seniors and their families while helping reduce opportunities for exploitation.

Protecting Independence While Promoting Safety

Conversations about finances and safety can sometimes feel uncomfortable, especially for seniors who value their independence. It is advised to approach these discussions with empathy, respect, and collaboration whenever possible. The goal is not to take away independence, but to provide support and protection from individuals who may try to take advantage of vulnerable adults.

At BrightStar Care of Omaha we understand the unique challenges families face when caring for loved ones with dementia. Through compassionate support, education, and personalized care, we are committed to helping seniors remain safe, supported, and empowered at every stage of aging.