A Neighbor Needs Help

A Neighbor Needs Help
By Robert Goodman, MSW
 
Perhaps you know of someone who can no longer take care of him/herself and has no one to help. Or perhaps you know of someone who is getting inadequate help. The question you need to ask is, does this person pose a danger to him/herself (or others)?
 
We all want to live independently for as long as we can. The idea of going into a nursing home is a horrible thought. Even assisted living is not considered a viable option by many. Families don’t want to institutionalize their loved ones. An aide 24/7 may not always be the best answer. So what do we do?
 
First, we are our neighbor’s keeper. If you suspect a neighbor is having difficulty taking care of him/herself you may want to voice your concern to a friend or member of the family. If no one is taking responsibility and that person is in need of help you can call a local social service agency or call the state abuse hotline (1.800.96.ABUSE). You can call anonymously.
 
Here are some indicators that there may be a need for intervention:
1. APARTMENT:

• Garbage piling up in the apartment.
• Hazardous living conditions due to lack of repairs, utilities and/or equipment
• Human excrement on floors and furniture
• Evidence of obvious fire hazards, such as piles of boxes, newspapers, old clothes, blocked exits

2. FOOD AND CLOTHING:

• Little or no food in the house
• Food is spoiled or lying around
• Insufficient/inappropriate clothing for the weather

 
When calling the Florida Abuse Hotline to report personal neglect (or abuse or exploitation),be prepared to provide the following information:

1. Person’s name, address or location, approximate age, race and sex;
2. Physical, mental or behavioral indications that the person is infirm or disabled;
3. Signs or indication of harm or injury or potential harm or injury (physical description or behavioral changes);
4. Relationship of the person responsible for the senior’s care, if known. If the relationship is unknown, a report will still be taken if other reporting criteria are met.

 
The Department of Children and Families will conduct an investigation of all reports received that alleges self-neglect by a vulnerable adult. The purpose of the investigation is to determine if there is evidence that a person is a danger to him/herself, and if assistance is necessary to protect the individual’s health and safety.
 
A protective investigator from the department will make face-to-face contact with the vulnerable adult within 24 hours of receiving an abuse, neglect or exploitation report. The protective investigator will interview all persons who may have knowledge of the victim’s situation, evaluate the information obtained, and make a decision as to whether the reported allegations did or did not occur. The investigator then refers the case to an agency for follow up so the victim can get the services s/he needs to be safe. This may include placement in a more suitable living environment.
 
Remember to report abuse, neglect, self-neglect, or exploitation call the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1.800.96.ABUSE. Help your neighbors who cannot help themselves.
 
We Care has a telephone reassurance and friendly visitor program for those who are homebound. To volunteer or to refer someone call 487.2827.