Alzheimer’s disease is the most fearful health condition for many. This worry can lead us to eat well, to exercise, to frequent health check-ups and to follow the suggestions of our physicians. For some older adults, however, the fear of the disease leads to money being wasted on Alzheimer’s cure scams.

What Are Alzheimer’s Cure Scams

Therapy scams for Alzheimer’s and dementia are a big business. Some understand that seniors are afraid of Alzheimer’s and have cash to invest, making them susceptible to scams. 

As we age, our brains can alter in ways that make us less conscious when something significant happens nearby and diminish our capacity to read social indications. Researchers claim that modifications in the brain can make us more susceptible to scammers.

How they Fight Against These Scams

The excellent news is that the FDA is cracking down on those that prey against the despair of people for the cure of Alzheimer’s. The agency acted against manufacturers of 58 products earlier this year, claiming to treat the disease, but had no FDA approval or evidence that they were working.

The bad news is that there are still unproven products being sold to elderly and members of their families who are desperate for some sense of hope. In some cases, the FDA says they can interact with prescription drugs and harm the individuals who take them.

How to Protect your Parent Against these Scams

• Does the product appear on the FDA’s Flickr account? The agency has a photo stream of products that have made unproven Alzheimer’s claims. The photos include close-ups of the products’ labels and packaging.
• Does the product claim to cure Alzheimer’s or dementia? Again, the FDA notes that there is no cure for Alzheimer’s.
• Does the product claim to reverse dementia symptoms? The FDA says there’s no product or FDA-approved treatment that can stop or reverse Alzheimer’s symptoms.
• Does the product say it can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s by a specific amount? The FDA says there’s no proof to back up such claims.

Remember that dietary supplements sold to patients with Alzheimer’s may seem valid if they are accessible at the drugstore, but the proof may not support allegations of dementia. Check the list of commonly recommended supplements such as Omega-3 fatty acids and Ginkgo biloba in the Alzheimer’s Association to find out what they can do.

What Are Other Ways to Overcome Alzheimer’s Scams

If you think your parent has been involved in scams of any Alzheimer’s or if you suspect that a product is a scam, you can report it to the FDA. In the state where your parents reside, you can also lodge a complaint with the attorney general.

You can report it to the Department of Health and Human Services if your parents have taken a supplement that harmed them. Naturally, promote your parent to speak to your doctor about it.

Entrust of DeSoto: A Resident-centric Memory Care Community in Dallas, Texas

Entrust of DeSoto is a memory care community that puts resident well-being at the center of everything we do. We know that each person is unique. That’s why we offer a wide range of services and lifestyle options to nourish the body and create community.

We understand the importance of home cooked meals and nutrition for seniors and this attitude is reflected in our dining experience. If you or a loved one live near Dallas, Texas and need assisted living, contact Entrust of DeSoto today to learn about our 24-hour care and find out how we can help.