What to do if an elderly person is not taking care of themselves?

If an elderly person is not taking care of themselves, it's crucial to address the situation with concern and offer support, escalating to professional help or emergency services when necessary.

Recognizing Signs of Self-Neglect

Self-neglect in an elderly person can manifest in various ways, indicating they may be struggling to manage their daily needs. These signs can include:

• Poor Personal Hygiene: Unkempt appearance, body odor, soiled clothing.
• Unsafe Living Conditions: Filthy home environment, accumulation of trash, lack of essential utilities, fire hazards.
• Malnutrition or Dehydration: Significant weight loss, signs of poor diet, or not drinking enough fluids.
• Neglected Health Issues: Unattended medical problems, missed appointments, not taking prescribed medications.
• Lack of Safety Awareness: Engaging in risky behaviors, leaving doors unlocked, or susceptibility to scams.

Initial Steps: Direct Engagement and Support

When you first become concerned, a direct and compassionate approach is often the best starting point.

1. Go Over and Knock on the Door: Make a direct visit if possible. This allows you to assess the situation firsthand and connect with the person.
2. Listen and Offer Your Support: Engage in conversation, express your concern gently, and listen attentively to what they say. Avoid being judgmental and focus on offering practical assistance or emotional encouragement. They might be struggling with a specific issue they are hesitant to voice.

When to Seek Professional Assistance

If direct engagement doesn't resolve the situation, or if the person's well-being is at significant risk, it's time to involve professional services.

Adult Protective Services (APS) for Self-Neglect Concerns

When an adult, especially an elderly individual, is unable to care for themselves and their self-neglect is causing harm or significant risk, Adult Protective Services (APS) is the appropriate agency to contact.

• When to Contact APS: Reach out to APS if you are concerned an adult may be self-neglecting and unable to meet their basic needs due to physical or mental impairments. APS investigates reports of self-neglect and can intervene to ensure the individual's safety and connect them with necessary resources and services. Their goal is to protect vulnerable adults from harm while preserving their independence where possible.

Emergency Situations: Calling 911

In situations where there is an immediate threat to the person's life or safety, emergency services must be contacted without delay.

• When to Call 911: Call 911 immediately if the person needs immediate medical attention or is in danger of immediate harm. This includes scenarios such as:
  • They have experienced a fall or serious injury.
  • They are unconscious or unresponsive.
  • They are exhibiting signs of a stroke, heart attack, or other severe medical emergency.
  • They are threatening self-harm or showing signs of acute crisis.
  • There is a clear and present danger in their environment (e.g., a fire, gas leak, or an unsafe structure).

Understanding Why Self-Neglect Occurs

Self-neglect is complex and can stem from various factors, often combined:

• Cognitive Impairment: Conditions like dementia or Alzheimer's can impair judgment, memory, and the ability to perform daily tasks.
• Mental Health Issues: Depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders can lead to a lack of motivation, isolation, and difficulty in self-care.
• Physical Limitations: Chronic illness, mobility issues, or disabilities can make it difficult to maintain a home or personal hygiene.
• Social Isolation: Lack of family or community support can exacerbate difficulties and leave individuals without the help they need.
• Financial Difficulties: Inability to afford necessary services, food, or medication can contribute to neglect.

Summary of Actions

The table below summarizes the appropriate actions based on the severity and nature of the concern: