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When you think of abuse, you may imagine physical abuse, sexual abuse, financial abuse, or maybe even mental abuse. There is another type of abuse that’s not commonly talked about that causes a lot of harm to elderly people. It’s called self-neglect.
Self-neglect is a condition where a person fails to take care of their basic needs, which can include personal hygiene, nutrition, medical care, and safety. So the person is basically abusing themself by not taking care of themself. It often involves neglecting to meet one's physical, mental, or emotional well-being needs, sometimes due to physical or mental health conditions, cognitive impairments, or certain life circumstances. This behavior can lead to serious health risks and deteriorating living conditions. While anyone can experience self-neglect, it’s pretty common among the elderly.
Signs of Self-Neglect
Is your elderly loved one neglecting themselves? It can be hard to tell. Here are some signs to look for:
- Hygiene issues: They may stop practicing basic hygiene, such as bathing, brushing teeth, or changing clothes. This could lead to body odor, unwashed hair, and dirty or torn clothing. Over time, lack of cleanliness can contribute to infections or skin conditions.
- Physical decline: Self-neglect can cause noticeable changes in physical health. Weight loss or undernourishment may occur due to a lack of proper nutrition or difficulty preparing meals. Dehydration may become evident through dry skin, sunken eyes, or fatigue.
- Unsafe living conditions: A person showing signs of self-neglect may live in an environment that is hazardous or unhealthy. This could include piles of trash, mold, or animal waste. There may also be clutter or objects blocking pathways, posing a risk for falls.
- Social Withdrawal: A person may isolate themselves from friends, family, or community activities. This isolation might stem from feelings of depression, anxiety, or embarrassment about their condition.
- Neglecting medical care: A person may avoid regular doctor’s visits, skip prescribed medications, or delay seeking treatment for health issues. Due to a lack of proper care or medication, chronic conditions may worsen.
- Mental health symptoms: A person struggling with self-neglect may show signs of depression, anxiety, confusion, or cognitive decline. They may become disoriented, making it difficult to manage daily tasks.
Preventing Self-Neglect
Preventing self-neglect among the elderly requires a combination of strategies, such as:
- Regular check-in. Frequent calls or visits from family, friends, or caregivers can help monitor an elderly person’s condition. Physical check-ins allow caregivers to assess hygiene, nutrition, and home safety. For those living alone, technology like emergency alert systems, video calls, and motion sensors can be helpful as well. Neighbors and community volunteers can also play a role in ensuring seniors are safe.
- Community resources. Many seniors struggle with tasks like grocery shopping, cooking, or housekeeping. Programs such as Meals on Wheels, senior transportation services, and in-home care providers can ensure they receive proper nutrition and support. Local senior centers also offer social engagement opportunities, reducing isolation and promoting mental well-being.
- Regular medical care. Routine medical check-ups can catch underlying health issues that contribute to self-neglect, such as dementia, vision loss, or mobility problems. Mental health screenings are also important, as depression, anxiety, or cognitive issues such as dementia can lead to withdrawal and neglect. Care managers and social workers can assess needs and coordinate appropriate care. Telemedicine and mobile health services can also be good options for seniors with mobility issues.
- Education and awareness. Family members, caregivers, and community workers should be trained to recognize early warning signs of self-neglect, such as drastic weight loss, hoarding, lack of medication adherence, and unsafe living conditions. Educational workshops and public awareness campaigns can help people identify these risks.
What to Do if You Suspect Elderly Self-Neglect
If you think your loved one is neglecting themselves, here are some next steps for you to take:
- Assess the situation. Signs of self-neglect can manifest in various ways, including physical (weight loss, bruising, untreated wounds), environmental (filthy or unsafe living conditions, lack of heat or utilities), and behavioral (lack of personal hygiene, confusion, isolation). Pay attention to their surroundings, as cluttered or unsanitary homes are often indicators that care is needed.
- Talk to the person. Approach the person with empathy and patience. Gently express concern for their well-being. Let them share their thoughts and feelings about why they’re neglecting their own care. They might have underlying reasons, like depression, denial, or a lack of resources. Keep in mind that some elderly people are resistant to help due to a lack of trust or a fear of losing independence.
- Offer assistance. If the person is open to receiving help, suggest ways to improve their situation. This could include helping with tasks like shopping, cooking, cleaning, or managing finances. You can also help them connect with resources such as local senior programs, meal delivery services, or counseling.
- Report the situation to authorities. If the person refuses help and their situation continues to worsen or presents an immediate danger, contact Adult Protective Services (APS) or similar agencies in your area. Healthcare professionals can also assess the situation and offer interventions, especially if there are medical or psychological factors contributing to the self-neglect.
- Seek legal help. If someone is unable to care for themselves, a legal guardian may be appointed to help make decisions on their behalf. If the person is still able to make decisions, you should grant someone a power of attorney to help manage their affairs and health care.
Contact Newman Law Group Today
Self-neglect is not a term that is talked about much, but it is a type of abuse that can cause a lot of harm. Your elderly loved one could be at risk.
If you have noticed signs of self-neglect, you may not know what to do about it. Contact a Sacramento elder abuse attorney from Newman Law Group, LLP. We are eager to learn about your situation and explain what options you have. To schedule a consultation, call (916) 352-3181 or fill out the online form.
