Neglect
Neglect is the failure of any person having the responsibility, charge, care or custody of a vulnerable person to provide that degree of care which a reasonable person in a like position would provide.
Neglect can involve intentional or unintentional acts. It includes the unintentional failure of a carer to fulfil their caring role or responsibilities, because of inadequate knowledge or understanding the need for services.
Typical examples of neglect
- Failure to assist in personal hygiene or the provision of food, shelter and clothing
- Failure to provide or access medical intervention for physical and mental health needs this does not include instances in which a person refuses treatment)
- Failure to protect from health and safety hazards
- A lack of personal care and/or lack of management of continence
- Malnutrition
- Confining to a room on their own
- Restricting or preventing social contact with friends or relatives
- Denying access to services.
Possible indicators of neglect
- A lack of personal care and/or lack of management of continence
- General deterioration of health
- Excessive dirt or other health hazards in vulnerable adult's living environment
- Unsuitable clothing for weather conditions
- Untreated medical condition
- Rashes, sores, lice
- Loss of weight
- Malnutrition
- Dehydration
- Misuse of medication
- Failure to obtain/ facilitate use of necessary prosthetic devices dentures, glasses, hearing aids, or durable surgical equipment
- Pressure sores
- Home environment not conducive to basic health needs, e.g. inadequate heating
- Consistent lack of supervision, either at home or during activities which hold danger for them
- Lack of lighting
- Poor furnishings compared to the rest of the house
- Dishevelled appearance
- Lack of appropriate bedding