Self-Neglecting Elders: A Clinical Dilemma

While elder abuse is a topic that has been widely explored, elder self-neglect is a subject that has not really been defined, much less discussed at any length. This volume is the first comprehensive work on the prevalent geriatric problem of self-neglect. It contains original clinical research and analyzes the medical, psychological, and social aspects of geriatric self-neglect from various perspectives of professionals within the geriatric field. This volume opens with an overview of elder self-neglect, including a general framework that describes exactly what is involved with this clinical problem. The authors then explore the broad societal implications of self-neglect before going on to examine special risks and subgroups that are associated with this dilemma. The final chapter investigates areas of research likely to enhance further understanding of this problem. Social workers, nurses and geriatric professionals who are concerned with this threat to our elderly will find this volume to be a valuable resource that provides an interdisciplinary perspective on health and social services.