A Scoping Review: Self-Neglect Among Racial Minority Older Adults

Background and Purpose: Self-neglect is the most frequently reported allegation investigated by adult protective services (APS), and racial minority populations experience disproportionately higher rates of self-neglect. This issue is becoming increasingly urgent as the aging population grows and becomes more racially diverse. However, limited research has specifically focused on self-neglect among racial minority older adults. Methods: Guided by the methodological framework of Arksey and O’Malley, this scoping review aims to summarize the existing literature to enhance current knowledge and raise awareness of this important issue. Results: We systematically searched four scientific databases (Ageline, Medline, CINAHL, and PsycINFO) for peer-reviewed articles published in English through December 2024 and identified 17 articles for inclusion. Through a comprehensive data extraction process, we identified four key themes, including racial disparities (e.g., prevalence of self-neglect), risk factors (e.g., lower physical function), protective factors (neighborhood cohesion), and adverse effects (e.g., increased mortality risk). This review also identifies critical gaps in the literature, such as the need for research on preventive and intervention strategies, studies focusing on understudied racial groups (e.g., Native Americans) and racial minority subgroups, and longitudinal designs to clarify the relationship between self-neglect and associated factors. Conclusions and Implications: These findings can help shape practice, guide policy, and support the development of culturally informed safeguarding strategies to better protect and support racially marginalized older adults.