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AnothrD Asked September 2014

How do I find medical personal that won't take advantage of my Mom's dementia?

My moms dentist of nearly 20 years, this time when she went for a cleaning told her she needed a $600 whitening system. She's 87. with dementia (and they know it). they have not made any money on her as she hasn't had a cavity or anything for at least the last 7 years. When I went to the desk to see why her cleaning was taking so long, they let me in the back to see her. They were prepping her for the "whitening treatment". I asked her what they were doing she said " I don't know". Dentist came in and saw me, turned red and said " you can take her home now. If i didn't walk in they were going to do the whitening. Assistant came into the room with the equipment as we were walking out. She's self pay on dental. Also about 3 months ago I took her to her a dermatologist for a exzema flare up. She tried to sell her a $300 wrinkle crème while I was in the room. I stated "she doesn't need that". Get to the desk to check out and they tell me she does not need to come back. Her primary can take care of the exzema from now on. I'm very frustrated as I thought medical would have some compassion, and not try to rip elderly off.

Any ideas how I can screen a new dentist and dermatologist for her??

Eyerishlass Sep 2014
That is just horrible that someone would take advantage of your loved on that way but I think it happens more than we think. I had to shoo away several people who tried to get stuff out of my dad, usually by phone.

Let your new Dr.'s know that your mom has dementia and that any extra services or products or appointments are to be cleared by you prior to the end of the appointment. And double check before you leave to make sure your mom doesn't have to come back for a face lift in 2 weeks or to have veneers put on next month!

margarets Sep 2014
If she has dementia, someone must have medical PoA for her, correct? So inform all future medical caregivers that all treatment decisions must be approved by the person with medical PoA. If they do ANYTHING without that approval, nail them to the wall.

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MaggieMarshall Sep 2014
That's the most disgusting example of taking advantage of seniors I've read in a long time.

If caregivers and medical people know you are watching them and in charge, I doubt you would see this kind of behavior. I cannot BELIEVE!!! that dermatologist tried to sell her wrinkle cream. That's just baloney.

"Mom's on a tight budget. We want her to have good care, but not spend money needlessly. Please help us." If you've set the parameters at the first meeting, I think you've put them on sufficient notice that they'll avoid her pocketbook and go scam someone else.

To the next dentist (because I'd NEVER go back to him), I'd add to that verbage. "The last dentist was ready to whiten her teeth for $600 (whatever) until I came in, Do you believe it??"

MKEgal Sep 2014
Definitely report them both, not only to their respective medical boards, but to the elder abuse agency. Might even consider your local DA's office, for attempted fraud / abuse. As for how to find new caregivers, start with the insurance company? Or her nursing home might have people they work with or recommend regularly.

geewiz Sep 2014
WOW, how about reporting these two to the appropriate 'boards' in your state? ALSO, I'd urge you to stay with your Mom at all appointments and meetings. Medical, financial, etc. There are a lot of dishonest folks out there.

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