It is a shame that we even have to write about this subject, but it seems that we aging amateurs are frequently targets of scam artists. I am especially interested in health scams, but there are plenty of other types out there, too.

It turns out that there are probably several reasons that those of us who are experienced taxpayers are more likely to be taken in.

A study several years ago led by UCLA psychologist Shelley Taylor found that older individuals were less likely to recognize untrustworthy facial cues than younger adults (a smile in the mouth, but not in the eye, an averted gaze or a backward lean). In a follow-up study using brain imaging, Taylor found that older adults appear to have less activity in the area of the brain that processes risk and subtle danger. She hypothesizes that this may be part of an effort to make life more positive (those rose-colored glasses) as we age.

Whatever the reason (or reasons) that make us more likely to fall for them, we are exposed to scams on a daily basis, whether we read magazines, newspapers, junk mail," surf the web or watch most television channels.

What are the most common health scams?

Treatments for diseases that are difficult or very complicated to take care of or require significant lifestyle changes for successful management like many cancers, diabetes or obesity. These scams are potentially dangerous and may cause harmful delays in getting proper diagnosis and appropriate therapy.

Treatments for illnesses that we lack highly effective medications or other interventions for like dementia or aging itself. In addition to potentially delaying diagnosis of treatable or reversible causes of decreased mental acuity or illnesses that may mimic standard aging, costs for many treatments are substantial.

Treatments for diseases that wax and wane in severity for reasons that are often difficult to understand or predict such as multiple sclerosis, many forms of arthritis and even low back pain. Since the symptoms come and go, treatments like magnets, copper bracelets, special diets, dietary supplements and electronic devices may appear to work, and many people spend many dollars with very limited benefits.

Dietary supplements are an element in all of the health scams listed above. While they are intended to ensure that a person gets enough essential nutrients, they are often promoted to do much more than this.

They are not regulated as drugs and may not claim to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure diseases (except the appropriate use of vitamins folic acid, for example, prevents neural tube defects when given to pregnant women).

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not have the authority to review dietary supplement products for safety or effectiveness before they are marketed. So it is buyer beware when using these products.

Why are supplements potentially risky products? Many supplements contain ingredients that have biological effects in the body that could lead to harmful consequences: when several supplements are combined, when supplements and prescription medications are used together, when supplements are used instead of prescription medications, or when supplements are used in larger doses than recommended.

So, if you take dietary supplements, use them as directed and be sure that your health care provider knows what products you are using and how much. It will be helpful to bring your supplements with you to your appointments.

The FDA has a list of Tip-Offs to Rip-Offs

1. Be suspicious of these red flag claims and others like them: quick fix," all natural, miracle cure," one product does it all," scientific breakthrough," new discovery," what your doctor doesnt want you to know," secret ingredient," shrinks tumors," lowers blood sugar," or lose weight without diet or exercise.

2. Be wary of personal testimonials by real people or doctors claiming amazing results. Testimonials are not a substitute for scientific proof.

3. Be careful. If a product claims to cure a wide range of unrelated diseases, its probably a scam.

Scams are out there, dont let yourself or your family members fall victim to one of them.

Bert Keller and Bill Simpson write the occasional column, Aging for Amateurs. Simpson, a retired physician, wrote this installment. Comments, questions and suggestions are welcome atagingforamateurs@gmail.com.

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Aging for Amateurs: Too good to be true? Health scams are out there - Charleston Post Courier