Finding the Best Debit Card for People Living with Dementia: A Guide for Families
When a loved one is diagnosed with dementia, everyday tasks like managing money can become more complicated. Not just for the individual, but for everyone around them too. Families often find themselves in a difficult spot: how do you keep money safe without taking away someone’s independence?
If you’ve found yourself googling “best debit card for dementia patients” or wondering “is there a debit card for people with dementia?” you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll explore what to look for in a debit card, the common challenges you might face, and how specialist solutions like Sibstar can help.
Why the Right Debit Card Matters
A debit card might seem like a small thing, but for someone living with dementia, it can represent something much bigger — freedom, dignity, and the ability to stay connected to everyday life. What we spend our money on is a big part of who we are. That doesn’t change for someone living with dementia.
That’s why it’s so important to choose a card that offers both protection and independence.
What to Look for in a Debit Card for Dementia
Not all debit cards are created equal and very few are designed with dementia in mind. Here are some important features that can support someone living with dementia to spend safely:
✔︎ Fraud protection: Built-in security features to reduce the risk of scams and unauthorised spending.
✔︎ Spending limits: Helps prevent overspending or large, unintentional or unnecessary purchases.
✔︎ Shared access: Let a trusted family member or carer monitor spending without taking over full control.
✔︎ Card controls: The option to choose where and when the card can be used such as turning on/off cashpoint withdrawals, spending online, over the phone or in-person.
✔︎ No credit facility: A true debit card with no risk of overdraft or debt.
✔︎ Freezing and unfreezing the card remotely: The ability to pause or disable a card remotely if it’s lost or compromised.
✔︎ Adaptable controls: Flexible options that can be easily adapted as needs change.
Common Challenges Families Face
Families supporting a loved one with dementia often juggle complex financial and emotional dynamics. Some key issues you may notice include;
Overspending or duplicate purchases: This can include buying the same product multiple times or buying unnecessary items, which may also be outside of a planned budget.
Difficulties with financial tasks: This can range from finding it more challenging to calculate change in a shop, through to late payments and unpaid bills.
Unusual spending patterns: Individuals may make impulsive and out-of-character purchases. For example, withdrawing large sums from a cashpoint or purchasing unwanted items.
Vulnerability to scams: Fraudsters often target people they believe may be more vulnerable to their scams. Unfortunately, scams can happen online, over the phone, as well as in person.
Lost cards: Misplacing or losing a card.
Tension around control: Balancing supporting your loved one with their desire to stay independent, especially when they may be used to managing the household finances.
Why Standard Bank Cards Often Fall Short
Most traditional bank accounts weren’t designed with dementia in mind. Unfortunately this means that many accounts and cards don’t meet the needs of families living with dementia. Common limitations include:
No shared access without joint accounts: Which may not be appropriate or desirable.
Limited real-time visibility: Making it harder to spot unusual or unwelcome spending early.
Complicated processes to regain access: If the card is lost or the account is frozen.
No ability to tailor the card: Spending limits, usage controls or alerts are rarely customisable.
In short, the standard banking system often doesn’t adapt well to changing cognitive needs. Often families feel their only option is to remove their loved ones' access to their money. But, there is another option.
Sibstar: A Debit Card Designed for People Living with Dementia
Sibstar is a secure debit card and app, created specifically to support people living with dementia and those who care for them. Developed in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society, it’s designed to strike the balance between financial independence and peace of mind.
Key features:
Set daily, weekly or monthly spending limit
Turn off online spending, ATM use or cash withdrawals
Instantly freeze or unfreeze the card
Trusted person can support a cardholder via the Sibstar app
Receive spending alerts and monitor transactions
No risk of debt — it’s a prepaid debit card, not a credit card
Sibstar is designed to adapt to your changing needs, offering flexibility at every stage of the journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a debit card for people with dementia?
Yes. Sibstar is a purpose-built debit card for people living with dementia, created in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society.
What is the best debit card for dementia patients?
The best card is one that offers control, protection, and independence. Sibstar provides features like spending limits, shared access, and fraud protection, all tailored for families living with dementia.
Can I help manage my loved one’s money without taking over?
Yes. With Sibstar, you can be added as a supporter, helping you to monitor and support your loved one. Options are available whether you have a lasting power of attorney (LPA) or not.
What happens if the card is lost or stolen?
The card can be frozen immediately using the app. You can also turn off features like online payments or ATM use for extra safety.
Is a diagnosis needed to get started?
No diagnosis is required. Sibstar is open to anyone who needs support managing money more safely, whether they’re in the early stages of dementia or simply want added peace of mind.
You don’t have to wait for a crisis to take action. Choosing the right debit card early on can help preserve your loved one’s independence while protecting them from financial risk and offering you peace of mind.
Sibstar was created to make this stage of life less stressful for everyone involved. It’s more than just a debit card. It’s a way to stay connected, supported, and in control.
Other Helpful Tools and Resources
Managing money safely is just one part of living well with dementia. These resources offer extra guidance and support:
