Neglect can be defined as:

Neglect is characterized by a failure to provide for a person's basic needs, which can include essential elements such as food, water, shelter, medical care, and personal safety. In a home health care context, neglect can significantly impact a patient's physical and emotional well-being, leading to severe consequences if not addressed. This definition encapsulates the responsibilities of caregivers, who are expected to ensure that individuals receive adequate care and support to maintain a basic quality of life. When caregivers do not fulfill these basic needs, it constitutes neglect, leading to potentially harmful outcomes for the individual receiving care.

The other choices illustrate different concepts. Providing excessive care can lead to issues like dependency or resentment but does not amount to neglect. Offering unnecessary support may indicate a lack of understanding of the recipient's needs or autonomy but does not equate to failing to provide essential care. Withholding information is more aligned with a breach of trust or communication issues rather than neglecting basic needs. Therefore, the definition of neglect is best captured by the failure to provide basic needs.