Veterans and Self-Neglect

When elderly veterans find themselves, either through physical disability, infirmity, or cognitive decline, unable to adequately maintain the basic necessities of life for self-care, it is defined as self-neglect. Some of these basics include things such as personal hygiene and grooming, like bathing, shaving, trimming their nails, and going to the toilet. Others are a bit less obvious, like keeping their homes and rooms comfortable and safe, managing their money properly, and maintaining their social lives and family contacts, preventing isolation from the outside world.

For senior citizens who are veterans, being caught in the cycle of self-neglect can make them more vulnerable to health issues. It also, just as worrying, puts them at risk of being taken advantage of by other people who may see the state they’re in and think this is someone who can’t make good and cogent decisions about their finances, income, belongings, investments, or themselves. This opens them up to the potential of experiencing elderly abuse and makes it more difficult for them to competently and adequately protect themselves from economic or physical harm, before any sort of incident happens.

Sadly, there is a trend of elderly veterans neglecting themselves that has become common. Protective service agencies can verify that self-neglect is becoming increasingly prevalent in all states. Some of the signs of elder self-neglect include:

• A lack of personal care, poor grooming, ragged or dirty clothes
• Medication schedule did not adhere to or medical help refused
• Unsafe living conditions, not enough or spoiled food, excessive clutter, pests and insects in the home
• Disorientation or confusion
• Poor finances, unpaid bills, borrowing or giving away money

If you or a loved one is a veteran struggling with self-neglect, Senior Helpers is here to support you. Our Veteran Care Program provides compassionate, personalized assistance to help veterans maintain their independence and well-being. We offer services such as light housekeeping, medication reminders, personal care, and companionship to help ensure your loved one is safe and well-cared for. Reach out today for a free consultation and let us help you address self-neglect while promoting dignity and peace of mind.