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Self-Neglect: A Safety Concern Among the Elderly

We take many steps to keep our older family members or loved ones safe. We make safety accommodations in the home. We take steps to safeguard against fraud and scams. We use tools, such as medication organizers and reminders, to make tasks easier. Another important step to take for the well-being of the elderly is being cognizant of self-neglect. Recognizing the signs of self-neglect can be challenging when time, distance, or a person’s desire for independence and privacy are at play. 

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Signs of Self-Neglect

In this section, we’ll discuss signs of self-neglect that will help you recognize if an older adult in your life needs help. Signs of self-neglect can be identified by family members, neighbors, or members of social groups. 

Self-neglect is defined by the US Department of Health and Human Services as “the behavior of an elderly person that threatens his/her own health or safety and generally manifests itself by failure to provide himself/herself with adequate food, water, clothing, shelter, personal hygiene, medication (when indicated), and safety precautions.”

Signs of self-neglect include:

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What To Do If You Suspect Self-Neglect

While solutions for problems of self-neglect can range from simple to complex, we’ll touch on initial action steps that can be taken before a situation escalates. 

  1. Talk to them: If possible, have a gentle, compassionate conversation to express your concerns and listen attentively to their perspective. You want to gather information so you can plan what, if anything, needs to be done.
  2. Talk to family, friends, or neighbors: Compare your observations with others close to the situation. Have they noticed any changes?
  3. Assess your perceptions and their safety: Ask yourself if there is a real safety risk present or if their lifestyle is simply different from yours. There is a difference between a messy home and an unsanitary one. What are you seeing? While you’re concerned about their well-being, it’s crucial to respect their autonomy and independence as much as possible.
  4. Consider their physical and mental capacities: Some people can be physically capable of caring for themselves, but mentally not well enough to do so. Or vice versa–they may be very healthy mentally but limited physically. Your observations will help formulate a care plan.
  5. Together, consider options:
    1. Offer your assistance within your means. Can you help with grocery shopping, food preparation, regular visits, or transportation?
    2. Identify others within their circle who may be able to help. Daily tasks are managed more easily when scheduled among a trusted group of supporters.
    3. Hire help. Find available services–for example, a cleaning service, home care aides, or a transportation company.
    4. Consider a medical evaluation to address or rule out any underlying medical issues.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure how to proceed, consult with a geriatric social worker, elder law attorney, or other relevant professional for guidance. Adult Protective Services (APS), a division of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), can help you find resources and solutions for adults aged 65 or older and adults aged 18 to 64 who have a disability.

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How Home Care Services Can Help

Hiring the assistance of a home care agency can make an impactful difference in the lives of older adults. At Inspired Care Solutions, our caregivers provide various home care services to clients throughout Boerne, the Hill Country, and North San Antonio. 

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Sources/Additional Reading:

Protect Texas Adults by Adult Protective Services

(DCD), D.C.D. (2022) How can I recognize elder abuse?, HHS.gov. (Accessed: 22 January 2025)

5 Tips for Talking to Parents About In-Home Care

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Home Care Agency

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