Abstract
Self-neglect amongst older adults is a social and health phenomenon that is attracting increased research interest in recent years. Very little empirical attention has been devoted to evaluating intervention programmes in this field. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the meaning attributed to elder self-neglect by social workers (n=16) in their encounters with self-neglecting elders professionals (n=16) using a “practice wisdom” model. Data collected via in-depth semi-structured interviews, which were later transcribed and content was analyzed. Four key scenarios emerged: Immediate threat to life; potential future threat to life; avoiding deterioration in the absence of imminent risk and addressing environmental nuisance. In order to provide appropriate intervention, the social workers developed intervention strategies based on the tension and the need for balance between preserving autonomy, protecting human rights and respecting the older persons’ wishes versus paternalism and client safety.