The Dangers of Elder Self Neglect
Seniors are unfortunately one of the most vulnerable segments of our population, frequently the victims of crimes, scams, or abuse. As a large portion of seniors suffer from either physical ailments or cognitive decline, their lack of ability to defend or advocate for themselves makes them an easy and tempting target to the unscrupulous. But amid all the furor and rancor that is rightly directed at those that would take advantage of the elderly for their own personal gain, there is one danger to older adults that goes unnoticed. The danger and harm that comes from self-neglect.
Elder self neglect is a more common and prevalent issue than most people may realize. In fact, it is likely the most common form of elder abuse. And while this may seem counter-intuitive, given that the abuse and neglect is not coming from some outside agent, the fact is that self neglect is not only damaging to an older adult’s health and safety, it can be life threatening.
There are many forms of self neglect. Some seniors cease their necessary medications, some neglect cleaning tasks or basic hygiene, and others withdraw from friends and family and isolate themselves. Studies have shown that it is those seniors who have limited or non-existent support and social networks are the ones more susceptible to falling into dangerous patterns of self neglect. Many family members who live a long distance away are frequently surprised and blind-sided when the conditions under which their elder relative has been living.