Neglect

Behaviours

  • Failure to provide basic needs, i.e. food, adequate or clean clothing, heating, medicines
  • under- or over-medicating
  • exposure to danger or lack of supervision, such as leaving the person in an unsafe place or in isolation
  • an overly attentive carer in the company of others
  • refusal to permit others to provide appropriate care.

Warning signs to observe

  • Inadequate clothing, complaints of being cold or too hot
  • poor personal hygiene, unkempt appearance
  • lack of medical or dental care, or injuries that have not been properly cared for
  • absence of required aids
  • exposure to unsafe, unhealthy, and /or unsanitary conditions
  • unexplained weight loss, dehydration, poor skin integrity, malnutrition.
  • What is neglect?
    Transcript

    Neglect is when a person’s basic needs are not met. Including food, water, medical care and support to stay safe and well.

    For older people and adults with disability, neglect can be intentional or unintentional – both cause harm.

    It may be linked to coercive control or other abuse.

    It can also result from carer stress or carers not having the right supports.

    Neglect can look like poor hygiene and clothing,
    untreated wounds and injuries, weight loss, dehydration or malnutrition.

    It can be unsafe or unsanitary living conditions, or not accessing medical care, essential services, or the community. 

    Neglect is not always obvious and is often explained away as part of ageing or disability. But it’s not normal and should never be ignored.

    Health, emergency and frontline workers play an important role in recognising and responding to early signs of neglect. 

    If you notice signs of neglect or have concerns, act safely and quickly.

    Assess the person’s safety. In an emergency, call 000.

    Listen to the person and support them to access help.

    Follow your organisation’s protocols and document the concerns.

    If concerns remain, call the Ageing and Disability Abuse Helpline. 

    Recognising and responding to neglect early can protect a person's safety, health and wellbeing.

    If you are concerned about yourself or someone else, talk to someone you trust – like a friend, doctor, or care worker, or contact the Ageing and Disability Abuse Helpline.

Neglect case study

Sarah is a 35 year old woman. She has an intellectual disability and other chronic illnesses. She lives in social housing with her Mum, Jan, who is her carer and Power of Attorney.

Jan has cancelled Sarah’s disability services. Sarah’s clothes are soiled and dirty and she appears to have lost weight.

Behaviours

  • Jan has cancelled disability services.

Signs

  • Sarah has lost weight and has soiled, dirty clothes.

Resources

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