What is a sign of financial abuse in elderly individuals?

Financial abuse in elderly individuals can manifest in various ways, and one significant sign is the necessity for permission to manage their own finances, such as writing cheques or spending money. This reflects a loss of autonomy and control over one’s financial resources, which can be a direct result of manipulation or coercion by someone in a position of trust. It often indicates that the elderly person is being taken advantage of, as they may not be freely making decisions about their own finances but are instead being restricted or dictated to by another party.

The other options, while potentially concerning in their own contexts, do not specifically indicate financial abuse. Needing more help with daily activities, having friends visit frequently, or investing in personal hobbies do not inherently suggest that an individual is experiencing financial exploitation. Rather, they could reflect normal aging processes, support systems, and personal choices that individuals make regardless of their financial situation.