Factors Influencing Financial Exploitation Vulnerability Among Older Adults

BackgroundFinancial exploitation of older adults such as elder theft and scams is a growing public health and social concern, yet factors contributing to exploitation vulnerability remain insufficiently understood.ObjectiveThis study examined associations among various factors including sociodemographic characteristics, financial literacy, financial skills, depression, social networks, technology anxiety, and financial exploitation vulnerability in older adults.MethodsA cross-sectional survey was conducted with 109 community-dwelling older adults. Hierarchical regression analyses examined predictors of financial exploitation vulnerability after controlling for sociodemographic characteristics.ResultsLower household income, weaker financial skills, higher depression levels, and non-Caucasian race were significantly associated with greater financial exploitation vulnerability. Financial skills emerged as the strongest modifiable predictor. These findings support multidimensional prevention strategies that strengthen financial competencies while addressing mental health. The findings also inform future research on technology-assisted approaches to identifying and preventing financial exploitation among older adults.