Helping a Senior With Hoarding Disorder
Hoarding disorder can pose serious safety risks for people of any age. It can be especially complex for older adults, who may struggle with emotional attachment to belongings or resistance to change. If you have an older loved one who is experiencing hoarding behaviors, knowing how to support them with compassion and patience is key.
To find out how a Right at Home caregiver can help someone you love, use our office locator to call the closest office.
Hoarding disorder can create unsafe and unsanitary conditions for older adults. Here’s what to keep in mind when you talk to a loved one about hoarding.
DO:
- Educate yourself about hoarding disorder.
- Listen to how they talk about their possessions and follow their lead.
- Focus on safety and harm reduction.
- Offer to help and work together.
DO NOT:
- Be judgmental and add to their shame.
- Argue with them about what should stay or go.
- Downplay the challenge of recovering from hoarding disorder.
- Be discouraging or spread negativity.
Right at Home caregivers provide assistance with personal care, transportation, housekeeping, companionship and more. Contact Right at Home* today and ask for a FREE in-home consultation.
*In-home care services may vary by location.
Popular Topics
Related Articles
How Older Adults Can Overcome Hoarding Disorder
Does Dementia Affect Housekeeping or Cause Hoarding?
