Self-neglect occurs when an individual is unable or unwilling to care for their own health, safety, or well-being. This in turn can affect their health, safety, and overall quality of life.
This can include:
- a lack of self-care to an extent that it threatens personal health and safety
- neglecting to care for one’s personal hygiene, health or surroundings
- an inability to avoid harm as a result of self-neglect • failure to seek help or access services to meet health and social care needs
- inability or unwillingness to manage one’s personal affairs.
It can also include them collecting of a large number of items with little value to others (e.g. newspapers) that make it difficult to live in your home. This is known as hoarding.
Signs of self-neglect
Look out for the following signs:
- poor personal hygiene or unkempt appearance
- weight loss or poor nutrition
- unsafe or unsanitary living conditions
- untreated medical issues or missed appointments
- withdrawal from social activities or reluctance to accept help.
What to do if you suspect self-neglect
There are many factors that can cause people to self-neglect including physical or mental health issues, trauma, substance misuse, or social isolation.
They can have difficulty recognising the risks or may not have the mental capacity to make decisions about their care needs.
If you think a person’s self-neglect is putting their health or safety at serious risk, there are a number of steps you can take:
- Talk to the person: If possible, express your concerns and offer support.
- Encourage help: Suggest that they seek medical or social care support.
- Involve medical professionals: Contact their GP or healthcare provider if necessary.
You can also contact Brent Adult Social Care if you are concerned about someone.