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Published on: July 27, 2018
Future research: a prospective longitudinal study of elder self-neglect.
Carmel Bitondo Dyer1, Luisa Franzini, Mary Watson
1Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Geriatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA.
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
|November 20, 2008
Summary
Elder self-neglect is a prevalent issue and a significant risk factor for mortality. Further research is crucial to understand its complex causes and impact on healthcare systems.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Social Work
Background:
- Elder self-neglect is the most frequent allegation handled by Adult Protective Service (APS) agencies nationwide.
- Self-neglect is an independent risk factor for mortality among the elderly.
- Limited research exists on the precipitating factors, root causes, and systemic effects of elder self-neglect due to its complex and multifaceted nature.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore elder self-neglect through interdisciplinary research.
- To characterize the population of elderly individuals reported for self-neglect.
- To lay the groundwork for future longitudinal studies on severe self-neglect.
Main Methods:
- Formation of the Consortium for Research in Elder Self-neglect of Texas (CREST) in 2004, funded by the National Institutes of Health.
- Convening 35 interdisciplinary investigators to conduct pilot studies.
- Characterizing a pilot sample of 100 elderly individuals reported to APS for self-neglect.
Main Results:
- CREST has initiated the characterization of vulnerable elderly individuals reported for self-neglect.
- Pilot studies provided initial data on a cohort of 100 self-neglecting elderly individuals.
- The study highlights the need for a deeper understanding of the medical, psychiatric, economic, social, and functional complexities.
Conclusions:
- A prospective longitudinal study is proposed to investigate the clinical course, mortality, causes of death, and healthcare/social system costs associated with severe elder self-neglect.
- Such a study would significantly advance the understanding of elder mistreatment.
- Addressing elder self-neglect requires a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach informed by robust research.
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