Diogenes syndrome — an Irish series

Abstract

AbstractObjective: Diogenes syndrome or the senile squalor syndrome is characterised by gross self neglect, domestic squalor and social withdrawal. Two series of such patients have been described in Britain. This paper examines the frequency and characteristics of the syndrome in an Irish urban population and discusses the management issues involved. Method: Detailed demographic, social, medical and psychiatric data was collected on all patients fulfilling the criteria for Diogenes syndrome who were referred to the North Dublin Old Age Psychiatry Service over a two year period 1989-1990. Results: Twenty nine cases (5% of all referrals) were identified giving an incidence rate of 0.5% per annum. Most were single or widowed (83%), and living alone (72%). 79% were known to the public health nurse and 59% had at least one medical problem. The commonest reason for referral was self-neglect. Thirteen suffered from senile dementia, three had schizophrenia, three were alcohol dependent and 10 had no psychiatric diagnosis. Subsequently, 12 patients remained at home, 12 moved into residential care and five died. Conclusion: The patients in this Irish series resemble those in the two British series. Management issues emphasised are the need to consider each patient as an individual and to balance risk with the right to self-determination. The role of care teams for the elderly in overall management is discussed.