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Neglecting themselves into an abusive situation

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My 93-year-old grandmother always had a zest for life but as her health and living situation changed, so did her attitude about life. She worked as a professional photographer taking those precious memorable shots at weddings and special family events for people into her 80s. Into her 80s she also went bowling, square dancing, did lots of traveling and spent time playing with grandchildren and great grandchildren. She has an infectious laugh and when she'd cut up and have fun, the laughter was contagious among family members.

Today that fire in her eyes fueling that zest for life is slowly burning out. Now living in a nursing home and having incredible difficulty moving around, she spends most of her day in a bed looking at a television and resting. It saddens me to listen to her say things such as "I wonder why I'm still here," and "This will be my last birthday." These negative beliefs and thoughts which run through her mind are not uncommon among the elderly. However, at times these thoughts can take a dangerous turn on how a senior takes care of his or herself.

Of the three forms of elder abuse, there is one which is actually self inflicted. Federal definitions of elder abuse categorize it into three forms: domestic abuse; institutional abuse and self neglect or self abuse. Self neglect is defined as behavior that threatens an individual's own health or safety. Normally this behavior is displayed in an older person through refusal to care for and provide for himself/herself. This could include actions as no eating adequate amounts of food or getting enough water, neglecting yourself by not wearing suitable clothing which fits the climate, not having appropriate protective shelter, neglecting personal hygiene, not taking necessary medication when it is needed for good health and not taking safety precautions or putting self in an unsafe situation.

Of course, this definition of self neglect/abuse pertains to seniors who are mentally competent and understands the consequences of his/her decisions and actions and makes a conscious decision to act in this manner. Elderly adults who live with forms of dementia and mental illness would not consciously make these neglectful decisions in the same way.

If you suspect a loved one or friend may be neglecting themselves, there are signs and symptoms to look for. The Elder Abuse Center http://www.elderabusecenter.org lists the following as possible symptoms and signs of self abuse/neglect.

• Dehydration and/or malnutrition, untreated or improper medical conditions or poor personal hygiene.

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