Self-neglect

Self neglect is when a person fails to take care of themselves. This can include lack of personal hygiene, health, or taking care of their surroundings (hoarding). 

See our self-neglect protocol and guidance for more information on how to identify self-neglect, how to report it, and how to get help. 

Warning signs of self neglect can include: 

• very poor personal hygiene
• Lack of essential food, clothing or shelter
• malnutrition and/or dehydration
• squalid or unsanitary living conditions
• failure to keep up with household maintenance
• hoarding - this can include items or animals, kept in inappropriate conditions
• lack of cooperation with health or care services
• inability or unwillingness to take medication or treat illness or injury