Individuals with developmental disabilities have a higher risk of experiencing medical and physical neglect. Neglect occurs when a caregiver(s) fails to meet the critical needs of an individual with disabilities. Chronic neglect has long-term adverse effects on an individual’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development and can further compromise the functioning of an individual with developmental disabilities.
Neglect can take many forms. It can occur in private homes, as well as group settings, such as group homes or institutions, in schools, and in workplaces. In many cases, primary caregivers, such as parents, family members, personal care assistants, or staff members, create and maintain situations where neglect occurs. For example, a caregiver can intentionally limit the individual’s food, medication, or access to medical care, thereby placing the person in jeopardy. Common examples of neglect include:
- Not providing adequate food or drink.
- Leaving an individual with disabilities unsupervised or placing the person in a potentially dangerous situation.
- Not providing adequate heat or air conditioning.
- Withholding personal care or medical care.
- Not providing a safe environment for the individual.
- Withholding access to necessary medical equipment, including hearing aids.
