Self-Neglect is defined as a broad range of behaviour in which an individual is neglecting to care for their personal hygiene, health or surroundings. It can be a choice by the individual or it can be because they are unable to look after themselves. Either way it is often indicative of further safeguarding concerns.
As self-neglect is such a broad and complex safeguarding concern it can present itself in a wide variety of ways. Often signs of self-neglect only appear a long time into a period of neglect and some signs are more difficult to spot than others but professionals should be on the lookout for….
Poor personal hygiene Missed appointments Unsuitable Clothing
Unusual odours Forgetfulness
Messy presentation Dehydration
Hoarding Poor diet 
Build-up of waste in the home Unexplained Weight loss Dangerous living conditions
Infestations 
Non-functioning utilities Threatened eviction
Hoarding is one of the most common forms of self-neglect and of course occurs to various degrees. This resource from Avon Fire and Rescue helps professionals to identify levels of hoarding and suggests appropriate courses of action: