Act on adult abuse & neglect
Recognize abuse, neglect & self-neglect - Self-Neglect
Self-Neglect is any failure of an adult to take care of himself or herself that causes, or is reasonably likely to cause with a short period of time, serious physical, mental or emotional harm or substantial damage to or loss of assets and includes:
Possible indicators of self-neglect:
- malnourished, overly thin
- no dentures
- dehydration
- mouth sores
- bed sores
- poor skin condition
- poor hygiene
- unpleasant odor
- soiled linen, clothing
- unkempt appearance
- clothes in poor repair or inappropriate for season
- urine burns
- confusion
- over sedation - reduced physical/mental activity
- reduced/absent therapeutic response
- no glasses, hearing aid, cane, walker
- dangerous environment
- cancellation of or going to doctor/dentist/therapy
- immobility, weakness
- home in disrepair
- lack of required safety features in home
- presence of untreated injuries
- medication problems
- living in grossly unsanitary conditions
If you recognize any of these indicators that are unexplained by the adult then you need to ACT! Report Abuse, Neglect and Self-Neglect.
