Feasibility of intervention in elder self-neglecters: Setting the stage for future research

Interventions are critical to improving clinical outcomes in elder self-neglecters. This study assessed feasibility of a randomized controlled trial of oral vitamin D in Adult Protective Services-substantiated self-neglect clients ≥65 years.

Participants were directly observed to consume ergocalciferol 50,000 IU (treatment) or ergocalciferol 400 IU (control), once a month, for 10 months. For months 6-10, half the control group randomly crossed into the treatment group (crossover). Intervention feasibility was measured by number of potential participants who agreed to participate and by retention rates during the study.

Ninety-four referrals were received and 59 (63%) agreed to participate. Forty-nine participants were enrolled after prescreening and 35 completed the two-phase trial for a 72% retention rate. The participants' average age was 75.2 ± 6.8 years, mainly female (59%), African-American (47%), and living alone (41%).

Despite assumptions that self-neglecters are resistant to care, we have successfully conducted the first clinical intervention in this vulnerable population.