Texas Jurisprudence Exam Physician Assistant Practice Exam

What defines "exploitation" of an elderly or disabled person under the law?

1. Unapproved use of their resources for personal gain

2. Using any resources for personal necessities

3. Receiving insignificantly small benefits

4. Taking advantage of their absence

The correct answer is: Unapproved use of their resources for personal gain

The definition of "exploitation" of an elderly or disabled person under the law centers around the unauthorized or improper use of their resources for personal benefit. This means that if an individual's financial assets, property, or any form of resource is utilized without their consent—especially for the gain of another person—this behavior constitutes exploitation. This is particularly crucial within the context of protecting vulnerable populations, like the elderly and disabled, who may not be in a position to defend their interests or understand the consequences of such actions. In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the legal definition of exploitation. Using resources for personal necessities, for instance, does not entail exploitation if it is done with the individual’s consent or for legitimate reasons. Similarly, receiving insignificantly small benefits is unlikely to be classified as exploitation if it does not cause substance harm or involve coercion. Lastly, taking advantage of someone’s absence would suggest an opportunistic act but would need to meet other criteria to be considered exploitation under the law; it cannot solely define the act without context concerning consent and unauthorized use of resources.