The term ‘self-neglect’ means an adult’s inability, due to physical or mental impairment or diminished capacity, to perform essential self-care tasks including (A) obtaining essential food, clothing, shelter, and medical care; (B) obtaining goods and services necessary to maintain physical health, mental health, or general safety; or (C) managing one’s own financial affairs.

This definition excludes people who make a conscious and voluntary choice not to provide for certain basic needs as a matter of life style, personal preference or religious belief and who understand the consequences of their decision.

Central Vermont Council on Aging is currently raising awareness about self-neglect in older persons through radio ads, posters, and social media.

 There is a difference between self-neglect and exercising self-determination. According Vermont's State Unit on Aging, "self-neglect excludes people who make a conscious and voluntary choice not to provide for certain basic needs as a matter of life style, personal preference or religious belief and who understand the consequences of their decision."