Shared from dailycaring.com.
Hoarding is especially dangerous for seniors
Hoarding is dangerous for almost everyone, but it’s especially harmful for seniors.
They’re more likely to fall in a crowded home and their health will be harmed by unsanitary or hazardous living conditions.
Senior hoarding issues could also indicate the presence of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or mental illness.
In other cases, it could also be caused by Diogenes Syndrome, a condition that affects some seniors near the end of life. Diogenes Syndrome is characterized by hoarding, self-neglect, social withdrawal, and a refusal to accept help.
Hoarding is often accompanied by some degree of anxiety, which makes it difficult to treat – and tough for families to watch. And because hoarders tend to self-isolate, it makes their emotional well-being even more fragile.
When you’re caring for someone who hoards, it’s helpful to learn more about senior hoarding issues.
Understanding the emotional side of this behavior helps you work toward effective solutions in a kind and gentle way.