Nursing Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Nursing, including details on health care, hospital staff, professional care. | ||||||||
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Theory synthesis for self-neglect: a health and social phenomenon.Gibbons SW Graduate School of Nursing, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland 20814, USA. Susannegibbons@verizon.net 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. Published 18 May 2009 in Nurs Res, 58(3): 194-200.
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