Self-neglect in later life

Although considerable attention has been given to the abuse and neglect of older people by others, little attention has been given to self-neglect in later Life. This paper reviews the research literature on self-neglect which tomes primarily from the medical profession. It is argued that evidence that gross self-neglect constitutes a specific psychiatric syndrome (commonly referred to as Diogenes syndrome) is scant. Given current moves to make legal provision for the protection of 'vulnerable' older people, more rigorous research into self-neglect is required.