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Neglect is the failure of caregivers to provide adequate care. It may be active (willful) or passive (non-willful). Victims of neglect tend to be very old, frail and/or dependent on others for assistance. Neglect may occur when caregivers are providing care unwillingly or for financial gain, or when they are unable to provide adequate care because they lack skills or have problems of their own. Neglect may be found at varying degrees and may be a recent phenomena or a long-standing practice.

While dealing with cases of neglect, it is important to be aware of one’s own values and resist making judgments about lifestyle choices other people have made. Impoverished families may lack not only amenities but things we consider necessities. Be aware that personal standards for hygiene and cleanliness vary. However, when an older person is denied basic care or is forced to endure unnecessary hardships, or when his/her health and safety are jeopardized, there is genuine cause for concern.

Physical indicators

• Untreated bedsores.
• Skin disorders or rashes.
• Untreated injuries or medical problems.
• Poor hygiene.
• Hunger, malnutrition or dehydration.
• Pallor, or sunken eyes or cheeks.
• Absence of necessities in the home, including food, water or heat.
• Absence of prescribed medication.
• Lack of clean bedding or clothing.
• Unsuitable clothing.
• Unsanitary or unsafe living conditions.
• Absence of needed dentures, eyeglasses, hearing aids, walkers, wheelchairs, braces or commodes.

Behavioral indicators

The victim may:

• Be unresponsive or helpless.
• Appear detached.
• Appear hopeless or depressed.
• Express unrealistic expectations about his or her care (i.e., claims that his or her care is adequate when it is not or insists that the situation will improve).

The abuser may:

• Isolate the person form the outside world, friends or relatives.
• Lack care giving skills.
• Isolate the person emotionally by not speaking to, touching, or comforting him or her.
• Refuse to apply for economic aid or services for the person and resists outside help