Self-neglect in older adults: an evolutionary concept analysis

Background

Self-neglect in older adults is a global public health concern, affecting millions of older adults. It is, therefore, important to define the concept of self-neglect to enable recognition and intervention.

Objective

The objective was to analyze the concept of older adults’ self-neglect, providing a reference to help healthcare professionals understand it.

Methods

A systematic search of relevant literature on older adults’ self-neglect was conducted in the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang database, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database, PubMed, Web of Science and CINAHL database. Rodgers' evolutionary method of concept analysis was used as a framework for the paper.

Results

A total of 68 articles were included. Older adults’ self-neglect included four defining characteristics: failure or inability to meet basic needs, risky or unsafe behaviors, diagnostic challenges in recognition, and social isolation or lack of interaction. Antecedents included physical, psychological, socio-environmental, and other related factors. Consequences included effects on the older adults themselves and effects on others and society.

Conclusions

A theoretical definition and conceptual model of older adults’ self-neglect was developed. The identified attributes, antecedents, and consequences can be utilized in nursing education, research, and intervention approaches.