Have you ever wondered why your loved one seems unable to part with old belongings, stores old radios that no longer work, or keeps clothes that were gifted to them many moons ago but were never used? What might seem like something normal, or even harmless nostalgia could be an early sign of hoarding, recognized as a mental health disorder that can have serious consequences if left unaddressed. Collecting an excessive amass of items – whether meaningful or not – can lead to clutter that may pose risks to both physical and mental well-being.
Signs of Hoarding in Seniors
Typical signs that your loved one may be hoarding objects in their home:
- Acquiring an excessive number of belongings.
- Emotional distress, anger or resistance when trying to discard objects not needed anymore.
- A desperate focus to save items regardless of their value. This could also be accompanied by obsessive or compulsive tendencies in general.
Health and Safety Risks of Hoarding for Seniors
Hoarding is more than just an excess of clutter and can pose serious risks for physical and mental health, particularly for seniors:
- Health problems: Accumulating clutter may cause respiratory issues, skin problems, allergies due to the settling in of dust, mold or pests.
- Injury risk: Hoarding can lead to tripping hazards, blocked exits or fire escapes, increase the risk of heavy objects falling onto a senior.
- Mental health strain: The emotional toll of hoarding can lead to, or worsen conditions like depression and anxiety, as the individual may feel overwhelmed surrounded by unmanageable clutter.
- Relocation to Care Facility: In some cases, hoarding can make it unsafe for a senior to remain in their home, leading to a move to a care facility.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to approach the situation gently with the senior loved one. Here are a few steps that may help:
- Start small: tackle one area at a time to avoid overwhelming your loved one. Begin with non-essential items that can easily be parted with.
- Use empathetic communication: Avoid being confrontational. Highlight the benefits of decluttering, and of creating a safer, more healthy and comfortable living space.
- Seek professional help: If hoarding becomes a serious issue, consider consulting with a therapist or a professional experienced in related behaviors. In addition, services of professional caregivers can be engaged to work the senior gently and with understanding to resolve the hoarding situation over a few weeks
Recognizing the signs of hoarding and understanding its emotional and psychological roots is the first step toward helping your loved one. While it can be difficult to confront, addressing hoarding early can prevent long-term health and safety issues. With compassion, patience, and professional support, your loved one can continue to live safely and comfortably in their home for years to come.
To learn more about professional caregiving support, contact the health experts at Home Instead – available 24/7 Call 604-283-9429
