BBB urges older adults, caregivers to stay alert for scams during Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

ST. LOUIS, Mo., (KBSI)— The Better Business Bureau is encouraging older adults and their caregivers to take steps to protect against scams and fraud during Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month.

According to BBB, older adults living with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia may be more vulnerable to scams because the conditions can affect memory, judgment and decision-making.

Research has shown that difficulty identifying scams and changes in financial decision-making may be early warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease. BBB noted that loneliness and social isolation can also increase the risk of financial exploitation among older adults.

“One of the best ways to prevent fraud is for older adults and caregivers alike to know the signs of a scam,” said Michelle L. Corey, president and CEO of BBB St. Louis.

BBB recommends older adults avoid sharing personal information with strangers, be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails and text messages, and consult a trusted friend or family member if something seems suspicious.

The organization also advises consumers to be wary of urgent requests for money, unfamiliar charities and offers that seem too good to be true.

For caregivers, BBB recommends watching for warning signs such as unusual financial activity, frequent spam calls, secretive behavior surrounding phone conversations or messages, and sudden financial difficulties. Caregivers are also encouraged to discuss common scams with loved ones and help them develop a plan for handling suspicious contacts.

BBB suggests registering phone numbers on the National Do Not Call Registry, reducing unwanted mail solicitations and helping older adults screen calls from unknown numbers.

Consumers can learn more about scams targeting older adults and report suspected fraud through BBB Scam Tracker.

### About BBB

The Better Business Bureau is a nonprofit organization that promotes marketplace trust by providing business profiles, consumer education, dispute resolution services and scam alerts. BBB serves consumers and businesses throughout the United States and Canada.