Registered Dental Hygienist in Alternative Practice (RDHAP) Law and Ethics Practice Exam

Which action is considered "financial abuse" of an elder or dependent adult?

1. Offering gifts to the individual

2. Accidentally misplacing a check

3. Taking property with intent to defraud

4. Helping an elder with their finances

The correct answer is: Taking property with intent to defraud

The action considered "financial abuse" of an elder or dependent adult is taking property with intent to defraud. Financial abuse refers to the illegal or improper use of an elder's or dependent adult's funds, assets, or property. This includes actions that exploit the individual's resources for personal gain without their consent or under false pretenses. Taking property with intent to defraud demonstrates a clear intention to deceive the elder or dependent adult for financial gain, which aligns with the definitions of financial abuse. Such behavior can involve manipulation, coercion, or outright theft, and it represents a serious violation of the trust that should exist in caring relationships. In contrast, offering gifts to the individual, accidentally misplacing a check, and helping an elder with their finances generally do not involve exploitation or deceitful intentions. Providing assistance in managing finances and giving gifts can be acts of kindness and support, as long as they are conducted ethically and transparently.