Can you stop the card entirely? My husband has made a few unwise purchases (i.e. Cloud storage purchases that aren't legit) but so far it hasn't been big money. We each have our own card so if necessary, I could ask the bank to stop his card.
April 13
How can you help someone with Parkinson's manage online purchases and credit card use when they're making repetitive purchases?
Memory issues and impulsive behaviors can occur with Parkinson's, sometimes related to the condition itself or certain medications used to treat it. This is a delicate situation that requires Show Full Answer
How can you help someone with Parkinson's manage online purchases and credit card use when they're making repetitive purchases?
Memory issues and impulsive behaviors can occur with Parkinson's, sometimes related to the condition itself or certain medications used to treat it. This is a delicate situation that requires compassion and practical steps.
Here are some approaches to consider:
- Have a gentle, private conversation focusing on concern for their wellbeing and finances, not judgment
- Frame it as helping manage symptoms that can come with Parkinson's, making it less personal
- Suggest removing saved credit card information from websites together
- Consider setting up purchase alerts or spending limits with the credit card company
- Talk to their neurologist about whether medications might be contributing to impulsive purchasing behaviors
Some Parkinson's medications, particularly dopamine agonists, can sometimes cause impulse control issues including compulsive shopping. This is something their doctor should know about.
You might also explore using prepaid cards with limited amounts for online purchases, or having a trusted person review purchases regularly. The key is approaching this as a team effort to manage a symptom, not as criticism of their choices.
April 12
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