Elder Self-Neglect and Abuse a Growing Problem

September 12th, 2009 · No Comments

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Elder self-abuse and neglect are serious issues that are more common than most of us realize. A recent study published in the August 5, 2009 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found through reported elder self-neglect and abuse an increased risk of death in those who elders who neglect their personal or health care.

Self-neglect is a general term describing a behavioral condition whereas older people neglect to care for his or her most basic needs such as personal hygiene, dressing appropriately, eating, or taking care of known medical problems. The consequences of self-neglect are sometimes permanent, although other physical and medical conditions may be reversed if addressed in time.

Possible causes of self-neglect and abuse

There are a number of possible causes for self-neglect including dementia, mental illness, or brain injury. Physical illness can have an effect on one’s physical ability, energy level, or organization skills or motivation to care for them. Depression often accompanies self-neglect and abuse.

When someone falls into self-neglect, any medical condition they are struggling with can become worse. Sores may develop or wounds may become infected due to lack of hygiene.

Unfortunately, when outside sources attempt to intervene, the elder does not always appreciate the help. They may see a health care provider, social worker, or concerned family member or neighbor as interfering with their life.

The result of self-neglect and abuse

When someone walks into a home that has not been taken care of, food left out on the table, inappropriate or unclean clothing being worn, trash not taken care of, and many other possible concerns, it can be difficult to rally the elderly person to make changes.

Even if the problems are addressed, the house cleaned, the laundry done, when the elderly person is again left on their own, their situation may again deteriorate with adequate support and encouragement.

In fact, the elderly person may want to stay in their home even when the house if falling down around them or the neighborhood where they have lived for many years has become unsafe for them.

If the self-neglect and abuse is not addressed properly, the elderly person will continue to go downhill. As they continue to age, they will be unable to rally enough to take better care of them without professional help.

According to the JAMA article, reported self-neglect was associated with a significant increase for risk of death within one year. The findings reveal how important it is for health care professionals to follow-up on reports of self-neglect in order to prevent serious ramifications to the elderly who are at risk.

What can we do?

The sooner self-neglect and abuse is identified, the sooner proper care and treatment can hopefully rally the individual, thereby preventing an unnecessary early death. One expert noted that due to the growing number of baby boomers entering into their senior years, a stronger work force prepared to care for the elderly will be needed.

As the number of cases of self-neglect has increased and will probably continue to increase in the future, the more important it is that the health care system recognize the importance of maintaining proper contact with the elderly, keeping an eye on their physical and mental condition, and promptly reporting any concerns to the proper authorities.

As a society, we all can take our own place in making sure the elderly in our family and in our neighborhood are taking care of them. If you see someone in need of physical help in or around their home, try to find someone in the family or through a social service agency or health care provider that will address their needs.

We may be labeled as nosey neighbors, but we may also be able to save someone’s life. Self-neglect and abuse is a serious health issue that can be and should be addressed as early as possible.