Self-neglect
Self-neglect involves a persistent conscious failure of an adult to take care of themselves and is therefore unable to meet basic physical and/or psychological needs. It can include a wide range of behaviour including hoarding, animal collecting, non-compliance, risky behaviour, failure to eat, drink, maintain home environment, personal hygiene, financial viability, social contact, comply with treatment, and protect oneself from abuse.
- Self-neglect may happen because the person is unable to manage to care for themselves or for their home, because they are unwilling to do so, or sometimes both.
- Self-neglect differs from other forms of abuse because it does not involve a perpetrator.
- Self-neglect can be life threatening and can pose a risk to others if fire and housing regulations are not being followed for example.
Hoarding
Hoarding is the excessive collection and retention of any material to the point that living space is sufficiently cluttered to preclude activities for what they are designed for.
Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a perceived need to save them, often creating such cramped living conditions that homes may be filled to capacity. Some people also collect animals/pets in unsanitary conditions.
Hoarding Support Groups are free to attend and provide a necessary resource for hoarders as well as their families and those affected by hoarding. The support groups are self-help groups and have been very effective for those who are challenged by their clutter.
Support available: