My elderly uncle is very independent. He lives by himself and has no help. Lately his kitchen and bathroom have been very dirty. His vision is failing and he doesn’t appear to be eating very well. I am worried about him becoming ill or having an accident because he isn’t looking after himself. What can I do to help him?

It can be difficult to help someone who is mentally competent and who has made a decision to live in a situation of self-neglect. In very general terms, people have a right to live as they choose as long as they are not committing a crime or posing a risk to others.

Some provinces have laws that set out rights and processes to be followed when it is believed that someone is at risk from self-neglect. If there is such a law in your province, it may help you deal with your uncle. Your provincial or territorial office for social services or for seniors will be able to direct you to the services available in your area.

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January 2006

see also:

• More Abuse of Older Adults FAQs

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