Active neglect is defined as which of the following?

Active neglect is defined as which of the following?

• A. Inability to meet needs
• B. Caregiver burnout
• C. Withholding necessities purposefully
• D. Financial exploitation

Answer: (C)

Active neglect occurs when the caregiver deliberately withholds basic needs from the older person, such as food, water, shelter, medications, or hygiene items. The key is intentionality—the deprivation is a purposeful act by the caregiver. This distinguishes it from neglect that happens because the caregiver cannot meet needs or forgets to do so, which would be passive neglect. It’s also separate from caregiver burnout, which is a state of caregiver stress, and from financial exploitation, which involves misuse of money or resources. Recognizing intentional withholding helps identify abuse risks and prompts appropriate reporting and intervention to protect the elder.

Active neglect occurs when the caregiver deliberately withholds basic needs from the older person, such as food, water, shelter, medications, or hygiene items. The key is intentionality—the deprivation is a purposeful act by the caregiver. This distinguishes it from neglect that happens because the caregiver cannot meet needs or forgets to do so, which would be passive neglect. It’s also separate from caregiver burnout, which is a state of caregiver stress, and from financial exploitation, which involves misuse of money or resources. Recognizing intentional withholding helps identify abuse risks and prompts appropriate reporting and intervention to protect the elder.