Texas Jurisprudence Exam Physician Assistant Practice Exam

Which of the following scenarios indicates potential abuse of an elderly person?

1. Any form of non-verbal communication

2. Unreasonable confinement or punishment by a caretaker

3. Family disagreements

4. Infrequent visits from family

The correct answer is: Unreasonable confinement or punishment by a caretaker

The scenario that indicates potential abuse of an elderly person is unreasonable confinement or punishment by a caretaker. This is a clear sign of mistreatment or abuse, as caretakers are expected to provide safe and supportive environments for those in their care. Confinement that is not justified by medical or safety concerns can result in psychological and physical harm, which is a serious violation of an elder’s rights and well-being. Non-verbal communication, while it may carry its own implications, is too vague to directly indicate abuse without context. Family disagreements are common and do not inherently suggest harm or mistreatment of an elderly individual; they often reflect normal interpersonal relationships. Infrequent visits from family can raise concerns in some situations, but they do not alone provide sufficient evidence of abuse, as there could be many harmless reasons for such infrequency. Overall, unreasonable confinement or punishment by a caretaker is a direct and alarming indication of potential abuse.