Final answer:
The client's statement about his son possibly taking his social security checks to buy beer and eat out is indicative of financial exploitation, a type of elder abuse. This form of elder abuse involves the illegal or improper use of an elder's resources for personal gain. It is a prevalent concern that requires attention and potential intervention.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement made by the older adult to the nurse about his son possibly stealing his social security checks to fund personal expenses suggests the elder abuse category of financial exploitation. According to research by Dr. Ron Acierno, financial abuse or exploitation is one form of elder abuse, which includes the illegal or improper use of an elder's funds, property, or assets. In this scenario, if the son is indeed using the client's checks for his own benefit without permission, this would be considered exploitation.
Other forms of elder abuse identified include physical, sexual, psychological or emotional abuse, neglect, and abandonment. The National Center on Elder Abuse also identifies signs and symptoms to watch for. Factors such as the caregiver's history of depression or their dependency on the elderly's income can increase the risk of abuse.
Elder abuse is a significant concern, with studies indicating that approximately one in ten elderly people has suffered at least one form of abuse. Financial abuse is particularly prevalent, and the alleged misappropriation of social security checks in this instance is a serious issue that requires further investigation and potentially intervention.