Elder Abuse & Neglect (1st Degree) involves which of the following?

• A. intentionally abuses or neglects an elderly causing injury
• B. intentionally abuses or neglects an elderly causing serious physical injury
• C. recklessly abuses or neglects an elderly causing serious injury
• D. negligibly abuses an elderly

Answer: (B)

First-degree elder abuse and neglect requires intentional acts toward an elderly person that cause serious physical injury. The intentional element means the caregiver acts on purpose, not by accident or through mere recklessness. The serious physical injury part sets a high threshold, typically injuries that cause substantial harm, permanent impairment, or risk of death. So the option that describes intentionally abusing or neglecting an elderly person and that the acts result in serious physical injury is the correct fit. The other descriptions don’t meet this degree because they involve non-serious injury, recklessness, or negligence rather than intentional harm. For example, intentionally striking an elderly person and causing a broken leg would meet first-degree criteria, whereas accidental injury, reckless behavior without intent, or neglect without serious injury would not.