Self-neglect: a survey of old age psychiatrists in Ireland

Abstract

Self-neglect in old age is complex, challenging, and likely to increase in the future. Self-neglect is characterized as the behavior of an elderly person that threatens his or her own safety. Self-neglect is the most common form of abuse and neglect reported to Adult Protective Services in the United States (see Teaster, 2000). Self-neglect is also associated with a significantly increased mortality in victims (Dong et al., 2009). Self-neglect has become a significant public health problem affecting not just the victims but also family members, friends, and frequently the community at large. Characteristics of self-neglect include a failure to provide oneself with adequate food, water, clothing, shelter, or a safe environment and neglect of personal hygiene and medical treatment (O’Brien, 2011).