Neglect occurs when a person deliberately withholds, or fails to provide, suitable and adequate care and support needed by an older person. It may be through a lack of knowledge or awareness, or through a deliberate decision not to act when they know the older person in their care needs help. Neglect can negatively impact the health and well-being of an older person.

What are the signs of neglect?

• Dirt, faecal or urine smell, or other health and safety hazards in older person’s living environment.
• Rashes, sores, or lice on the older person.
• The older person is inadequately clothed.
• The older person is malnourished or dehydrated.
• The older person has an untreated medical condition.
• The older person has poor personal hygiene.
• There is evidence of the withholding of medication or over-medication of the older person.
• There is evidence of a lack of assistance with eating and drinking.
• There are unsanitary and unclean conditions.

To view the neglect information brochure, click here.