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Dementia internet advice needed

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Geoff56 Sun 10-Jan-21 17:12:39

An elderly relative [93] has the onset of dementia. We have had to take his computer away because he has been cancelling online his utility suppliers [because he didn't recognise his gas and electricity suppliers], he also cancelled his broadband supplier because he didn't recognise them and he is at risk to cyber fraud because he cannot differentiate between legitimate emails and scammers. The loss of the computer has distressed him greatly. Clearly we would like him not to be distressed and have the computer back, but we are concerned about fraudsters conning him to get access to his accounts. Can anyone offer any advice?

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geekesse Sun 10-Jan-21 17:45:30

Nanny software of some kind may be the answer. “Parental control” software is really designed to control children’s internet use, but if you set it up carefully it would be equally useful for this relative. You could block access to utility company sites and so on, monitor their use and control which sites they have access to.

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welbeck Sun 10-Jan-21 19:18:28

what does he mostly use it for.
there is a machine that just does video calls, set up by family.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=3l1Glb2ObOk

is he safe living alone. what other mistakes might he make, re cooking etc.

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kittylester Sun 10-Jan-21 20:17:59

Do you have POA?

Your local Alzheimer's Society will be able to put you in touch with the Assistive Technology Dept for your area who might be able to help with a device that only does certain things.

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Marydoll Sun 10-Jan-21 20:31:29

Kitty, I was just about to suggest you might be able to help!

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Geoff56 Tue 12-Jan-21 22:43:10

Thank you all so very much, your advice is very helpful.

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