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Conceptualising and responding to self-neglect: challenges for adult safeguarding

journal contribution
posted on 2023-06-07, 20:36 authored by Suzy Braye, David OrrDavid Orr, Michael Preston-Shoot
Purpose: The research reported here aimed to scope the concept of self-neglect as it is explored in the literature and interpreted in practice by professionals involved in adult safeguarding. Design: The approach taken included a systematic search and thematic analysis of English-language literature on self-neglect, workshops with UK-based adult safeguarding leads and practitioners from social services, police and health services, and scrutiny of Safeguarding Adults Boards' documentation. Findings: The concept of self-neglect is complex with contrasting definitions and aetiology, accompanied by debates on the principles that guide intervention. Decision-making capacity is a key pivot upon which professional responses to self-neglect turn. Intervention in self-neglect requires careful exploration in the context of principles of personalisation, choice, control and empowerment that underpin policy in adult social care and safeguarding. Research limitations/implications: As a conceptual scoping review, this study sought to establish broad themes of use to practitioners working with self-neglect. It thus does not carry out full quality review of the literature identified and discussed, but serves as a base for this to be done in future. Practical implications: Assessment in self-neglect should consider the influence of a number of possible causative factors, and intervention must balance respect for autonomy on the one hand and a perceived duty to preserve health and wellbeing on the other. Value: This article summarises and critically analyses the emerging key features of evidence-informed practice in the challenging field of self-neglect.

History

Publication status

  • Published

Journal

Journal of Adult Protection

ISSN

1466-8203

Publisher

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Issue

4

Volume

13

Page range

182-193

Department affiliated with

  • Social Work and Social Care Publications

Full text available

  • No

Peer reviewed?

  • Yes

Legacy Posted Date

2012-02-06

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