Classification of the Self-Neglect Cases Among Community-Dwelling Elderlies

Abstract

Objective: To identify the state of self-neglect among elderly and classify.

Methods: A self-administered questionnaire survey was conducted among professionals with experience in dealing with self-neglect cases at comprehensive community support centers and social welfare councils in six Kinki prefectures. Responses were obtained for 151 self-neglect cases.

Results: A principal component analysis was conducted on responses to 34 items describing self-neglect conditions and behaviors. Five components were extracted: unsanitary living environment, inappropriate healthcare behaviors, unhygienic housing environment, poor money management, and poor interpersonal relationships. A cluster analysis using these components revealed four self-neglect types: poor interpersonal relationships (34%), money management difficulties (26%), overall low group (23%) and poor living environment group (14%). There were differences between the clusters in the degree of independence in daily living of the disabled elderly and the elderly with dementia, the type and severity of self-neglect, and the older people’s own acceptance of others.

Conclusion: The self-neglect status of older people can be typified into four groups, and the characteristics between the clusters of typologies suggest the need for interventions and support accordingly.