Which factor increases vulnerability to elder abuse?

Which factor increases vulnerability to elder abuse?

• A. Regular social activities
• B. High income
• C. Dementia
• D. Excellent health

Answer: (C)

Dementia increases vulnerability to elder abuse because cognitive impairment affects judgment, memory, and communication. The elder often depends on others for daily tasks and safety, and may struggle to recognize mistreatment or to report it. This dependence plus potential isolation creates opportunities for abuse to go unnoticed and for exploitation, including neglect or financial harm. Regular social activities help protect against abuse by keeping the person connected and able to speak up, while high income and good health reduce vulnerability by providing resources and reducing dependence. Thus, dementia is the factor that heightens vulnerability.

Dementia increases vulnerability to elder abuse because cognitive impairment affects judgment, memory, and communication. The elder often depends on others for daily tasks and safety, and may struggle to recognize mistreatment or to report it. This dependence plus potential isolation creates opportunities for abuse to go unnoticed and for exploitation, including neglect or financial harm. Regular social activities help protect against abuse by keeping the person connected and able to speak up, while high income and good health reduce vulnerability by providing resources and reducing dependence. Thus, dementia is the factor that heightens vulnerability.