The prevalence of self‐neglect among older adults: A systematic review and meta‐analysis

PURPOSE: To quantitatively pool the overall prevalence of self-neglect in older adults and provide evidence-based information for healthcare professionals to develop preventive measures. METHODS: Systematically and thoroughly searched ten databases from inception to September 1, 2024 and we pooled the prevalence of self-neglect in older adults using a random-effects model based on the Stata 15.0 software. RESULTS: In our meta-analysis, 21 studies were included, and the estimated prevalence rate of self-neglect among older adults was 27% (95% CI: 23%-30%). We found that the incidence of self-neglect was higher in males, aged 80 years, developing countries, hospitals, and using the Elder Self-Neglect Questionnaire assessment tool. CONCLUSION: Self-neglect is a common and underestimated phenomenon in older adults, and the prevalence rate of self-neglect is high. Several epidemiological characteristics such as gender, age, countries, settings, and definition criteria were associated with its prevalence. It deserves early screening and targeted intervention by using a globally accepted definition of self-neglect to prevent older adults from self-neglect. IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Our study can provide clinical evidence for nursing staff and healthcare professionals to identify high-risk groups of self-neglect in older adults.