Neglect or self-neglect
A person can suffer because their physical and psychological needs are being neglected by a carer. This could include failure to keep someone warm, clean and well nourished or neglecting to give prescribed medication. The following may be evidence of neglect -
- inadequate heating and lighting
- poor physical condition of the vulnerable adult
- persons clothing is ill fitting, unclean and in poor condition
- malnutrition
- failure to give prescribed medication properly
- failure to provide appropriate privacy and dignity
- inconsistent or reluctant contact with health and social care agencies
- isolation - denying access to callers or visitors
Self-neglect can be, but is not limited to, neglecting to care for –
- personal hygiene
- health
- surroundings
and includes behaviour such as hoarding.