By Fredrick P. Niemann, Esq. a New Jersey Elder Abuse Attorney
Tragically, sometimes elders neglect their own care, which can lead to illness or injury. Self-neglect can include behaviors such as:
• Hoarding
• Failure to take essential medications or refusal to seek medical treatment for serious illness
• Leaving a burning stove unattended
• Poor hygiene
• Not wearing suitable clothing for the weather
• Confusion
• Inability to attend to housekeeping
• Dehydration
Self-neglect accounts for the majority of cases reported to adult protective services. Oftentimes, the problem is paired with declining health, isolation, Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, or drug and alcohol dependency.
In some of these cases, elders will be connected to support groups in the community that allows them to continue living on their own. Some conditions like depression and malnutrition may be successfully treated through medical intervention. If the problems are severe enough, a guardian may be appointed.
Contact me personally today to discuss your New Jersey elder abuse issue. I am easy to talk to, very approachable and can offer you practical, legal ways to handle your concerns. You can reach me toll free at (855) 376-5291 or e-mail me at fniemann@hnlawfirm.com.