These are notes to be used for speaking with senior citizens groups whose members probably do not use computers or have Internet access. Most of this information has been taken from the booklet: AgePage prepared by the National Institute on Aging and from notes in my TRIAD files.
Health Scams
Ads for "Smart" Drugs
a. "Arthritis pains disappear like magic"
b. "This treatment cured my cancer in one week"
These ads usually target diseases that now have no or rare cures, such as: diabetes, arthritis, cancer or Alzheimers.
Anti-aging medications. (Probably do not work at all.)
Instead: stop smoking; eat a healthy diet; get regular exercise.
Arthritis remedies. Magnets; copper bracelets; chemicals; special diets; radiation treatments.
(There is no cure for most forms of arthritis.)
Instead: Rest; exercise; heat; some drugs.. may relieve symptoms, but nothing cures it as of yet.
Cancer cures. Low protein diet; Laetrile, etc. (There is no one treatment that cures all types of cancer.)
Do not waste time.. talk to a respected oncologist as soon as cancer is suspected.
Memory aids. "Smart pills"; removal of certain dental fillings; some unproven brain retraining exercises.
Get advice from a respected medical doctor.
Dietary supplements. Over-the-counter vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs and enzymes.
(These normally do not undergo Governmment safety tests, and some may interact unfavorably with your prescription medication.)
Watch out.. especially if the advertiser claims that his supplement can shrink tumors, solve impotence, or cure Alzheimer's disease. Talk to a reputable medical doctor and/or pharmacist before adding a new supplement to your diet.
Health Insurance. Some companies target those who cannot get health insurance.. mainly those with pre-existing conditions.
Watch out.. companies often promise more that they intend to give out. Make sure the company and agent are licensed in your State. Maryland has an office that can help you free of charge. Also, the new Health Insurance Law mandates coverage by insurers for those with pre-existing conditions.
Bottom Line!
Be careful! If it sounds too good to be true.. it probably is. Find out about a product before you buy it. Watch out for fast-talking salespersons. Here are some "RED FLAGS" to look for in ads:
We promise a quick or painless cure.
Our product is made from a special, secret or ancient formula.
Check these statements from satisfied clients.
Our product cures a wide range of ailments.
We offer a "no-risk", "money-back" guarantee.
We offer a free special promotional gift if you purchase today.
We require advance payment because of the limited supply of our product.
This product is available only by mail and only from our company.
If you spot any of these statements, take care in accessing the products that are offered. If you want to be sure that you are not going to be smammed.. you can call the National Instititute on Aging Information Center on 1-800-222-2225 (toll free) or 1-800-222-4225 (TTY and toll free).
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