That was... interesting? I wonder if they chose credit score because they see caring for one's parents as "repaying the debt".
I just pity any parents who only get visits from their ONE child if they threaten them with a lawsuit or (now) reduction in credit score... that would make for an awkward visit.
I'd suggest they chose credit score because that's what makes people dance.
In the same way that beat cops keep one hand on the Taser when dealing with the hoi polloi; it focuses the subject's attention on what they want them to do.
If you actually have to use it, that's an overall loss, especially if they find it is not as bad as they feared.