SELF-NEGLECT of OLDER PERSONS: Challenges for Health Care Professionals

Self-neglect represents the highest percentage of elder abuse cases. The Public Policy Institute of AARP estimates that self-neglect represents 40 to 50 percent of cases reported to states Adult Protective Services. Self-abusers do not fit a uniform profile as there are many factors which may lead one to self-neglect. Participants will learn indicators of self-neglect, ways to assess for this complex problem and intervention strategies. Participants will become knowledgeable of the challenge of balancing the individual's right to autonomy with society's obligation to protect at-risk adults.