066 – Interview: Addressing Potential Self-Neglect in Older Adults

In This Episode:

Dr. K talks with Aanand Naik, MD, a geriatrician with a special interest in self-neglect and vulnerability among older adults. Dr. Naik is Associate Professor at Baylor College of Medicine and recently authored the chapter “Evaluating Capacity for Safe and Independent Living Among Vulnerable Older Adults” in the textbook “Ethical Considerations and Challenges in Geriatrics.” They discuss:

• What does “self-neglect” mean, and what are the related risks?
• How common is self-neglect in older adults?
• What are some common signs that might indicate self-neglect?
• What does it mean to be able to manage one’s self-care and self-protection?
• What can you do if you’re concerned about potential self-neglect in an older person?
• How can doctors and other health professionals help address possible self-neglect?
• What is the role of Adult Protective Services in addressing this issue?
• When might the courts become involved?

Related episodes: 

038 – FAQs On “Incompetence” & Losing Decision Capacity

045 – HIPAA: Key Basics & 5 FAQs for Family Caregivers

Related Resources:

• Washington State Department of Social and Health Services: Self Neglect
• Assessing capacity in suspected cases of self-neglect
• Elder self-neglect: research and practice
• NY Times: Elder Abuse: Sometimes It’s Self-Inflicted
• Incompetence & Losing Capacity: Answers to 7 FAQs
• What is a geriatric care manager? (includes information on how to find one)