| Title | Theory synthesis for self-neglect: a health and social phenomenon. | | Author(s) | Gibbons SW | | Institution | Graduate School of Nursing, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, USA. Susannegibbons@verizon.net | | Source | Nurs Res 2009 May-Jun; 58(3):194-200. | | MeSH | Adaptation, Psychological
Aged
Aged, 80 and over
Attitude of Health Personnel
Attitude to Health
Chronic Disease
Female
Geriatric Assessment
Humans
Intention
Male
Mass Screening
Nursing Assessment
Nursing Evaluation Research
Nursing Methodology Research
Nursing Theory
Patient Compliance
Psychological Theory
Qualitative Research
Questionnaires
Self Care
Self-Injurious Behavior
| | Abstract | BACKGROUND: Self-neglect, best known for its prominent place in the elder mistreatment framework, is a phenomenon associated with a variety of health and social conditions. However, a second, less worrisome group of older adults with chronic disease exhibits similar patterns of nonadherence and inadequate self-care practices and has the potential for progression.
OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this theory-validating research was to describe characteristics and behaviors of self-neglect in adults (aged 55 years and older) who reside in the community. This research described characteristics and behaviors of self-neglect in early stages of this phenomenon and described the influence of several variables of significance in the clinical evolution and course of self-neglect in identified cases.
METHODS: A descriptive, exploratory mixed-method design was employed for a comprehensive analysis of the research questions. A convenience sample of seven healthcare providers identified a purposive sample of 20 patient participants. Demographic information, geriatric assessments, and structured interview data were analyzed using content analysis and descriptive statistics.
RESULTS: Characteristics and behaviors of self-neglect, before significant deterioration, are described in intentional (n = 9) and nonintentional (n = 11) self-neglect study participants. Fourteen themes emerged and were grouped into five categories. Coping problems appeared to affect operable self-care agency of each self-neglect study participant.
DISCUSSION: The results validate a framework for self-neglect research and practice and indicate a need to consider coping abilities of all patients exhibiting self-neglect. | | Language | eng | | Pub Type(s) | Journal Article
Validation Studies
| | PubMed ID | 19448523 |
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