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Assessment of Social Interaction Behaviors
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Social connection and self-neglect: A case for broader exploration
Jason Burnett1, Gabrielle M Hoyumpa2, Jennifer E S Beauchamp3
1Joan and Stanford Alexander Division of Geriatric and Palliative Medicine, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA.
International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine
|June 19, 2024
Summary
Self-neglect in older adults is often linked to social isolation. Exploring social connection characteristics can reveal new targets for preventing and intervening in self-neglect cases.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Social Work
- Public Health
Background:
- Self-neglect (SN) is a primary concern for Adult Protective Services (APS), posing significant health risks to older adults.
- While lack of instrumental support is a known factor, other modifiable social connection characteristics in SN remain under-explored.
- The social connection framework offers a lens to examine structure, function, and quality, potentially identifying new intervention targets.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the multifaceted nature of social connection in older adults experiencing self-neglect (SN).
- To identify modifiable social connection characteristics relevant to the prevention and intervention of SN.
- To apply the social connection framework to understand SN within the context of Adult Protective Services (APS) reports.
Main Methods:
- A narrative case study approach was employed.
- Quantitative and qualitative data were integrated to provide a comprehensive analysis.
- Social connection was examined across its structural, functional, and qualitative dimensions.
Main Results:
- The study highlights the intricate nature of social connection in APS-reported SN cases.
- Complexities in social connection were observed, influencing the presentation and progression of self-neglect.
- The case illustrates the strategic use of social interventions to address deficits in social connection.
Conclusions:
- Findings from this case study offer insights potentially applicable to a broader population of older adults with SN.
- The study underscores the importance of considering social connection as a key factor in SN.
- Recommendations for future research focusing on social connection in older adults with SN are proposed.
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