title: Gross self-neglect in old age.
abstract: Most elderly, including those with physical or mental disability manage to maintain their standard of life, often owing to the support of their relatives and neighbours. Only a few let their self-care drop to alarmingly low level, thus causing public concern. Health workers, when asked to help, face medico-legal and moral dilemmas, some of which are explored.
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003695:Delivery of Health Care; D003704:Dementia / Q000150:complications / Q000266:history / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D049673:History, 20th Century; D049690:History, Ancient; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012648:Self Care / Q000523:psychology; D012652:Self Mutilation