Neglect and acts of omission

Neglect is the ongoing failure to meet a persons basic needs. Neglect occurs when a person deliberately withholds, or fails to provide, suitable and adequate care and support needed by another adult. It may be through a lack of knowledge or awareness, or through a decision not to act when they know the adult in their care needs help

Types of neglect and acts of omission – include

Failure to provide or allow access to food, shelter, clothing, heating, stimulation and activity, personal or medical care
Providing care in a way that the person dislikes
Failure to administer medication as prescribed
Refusal of access to visitors
Not taking account of individuals’ cultural, religious or ethnic needs
Not taking account of educational, social and recreational needs
Ignoring or isolating the person
Preventing the person from making their own decisions
Preventing access to glasses, hearing aids, dentures, etc.
Failure to ensure privacy and dignity

Signs may include:

Poor environment – dirty or unhygienic
Poor physical condition and/or personal hygiene
Pressure sores or ulcers
Malnutrition or unexplained weight loss
Untreated injuries and medical problems
Inconsistent or reluctant contact with medical and social care organisations
Accumulation of untaken medication
Uncharacteristic failure to engage in social interaction
Inappropriate or inadequate clothing