NACA Animal Control Officers Practice Test

A sign of financial elder abuse might be what kind of discrepancy?

1. Abandonment of the elder person

2. Unexplained depletion of assets

3. Animal abuse in the household

4. Substance abuse among caregivers

The correct answer is: Unexplained depletion of assets

Unexplained depletion of assets is a significant sign of financial elder abuse because it indicates that an elder person may be losing their financial resources without a clear or justifiable reason. This type of discrepancy can manifest in various forms, such as sudden withdrawals from bank accounts, unusual changes in power of attorney, or the elder's funds being mismanaged or misappropriated. Such financial irregularities often suggest that someone may be taking advantage of the elder’s trust or cognitive decline, leading to potential exploitation. Recognizing this sign is crucial for intervention and protecting the vulnerable elder from further abuse. In contrast, abandonment of the elder person pertains more to neglect rather than financial issues, while animal abuse and substance abuse among caregivers, although serious concerns, do not directly indicate financial exploitation. Understanding these distinctions is vital for identifying different types of abuse and ensuring the well-being of the elder.