Dementia Answers: Hoarding Reconsidered
- Team Writer
- 52 minutes ago
- 2 min read
Video Transcript [Answer 1030]
Welcome and thank you for joining me.
Today we're going to talk about how hoarding can be reconsidered in persons living with Dementia.
Hoarding means collecting or keeping too many items, sometimes to the point where it makes a space crowded or unsafe for people living with Dementia. This behavior can happen for many reasons, and it is important to understand it with patience and compassion.
Sometimes hoarding is linked to memory loss. A person may forget they already have something and keep collecting more. At other times, the items may bring comfort or a sense of control, especially when other parts of life feel confusing or beyond their control.
Holding on to things may also be a way of staying connected to memories or to people they love. Instead of seeing hoarding only as a problem, it helps to consider why it might be happening. This shift in thinking allows caregivers to respond with kindness rather than frustration.
For example, if someone collects newspapers, perhaps it gives them comfort to read or hold on to the information. If they keep food items, it may be because they fear running out.
Addressing hoarding in Dementia begins with safety. Clearing walking paths, removing spoiled food, and reducing fire hazards are most important.
At the same time, try not to take away all belongings suddenly, as this can cause distress. A better way is to slowly guide the person to keep a smaller number of items while gently removing what is unsafe.
Offering alternatives, like a memory box with special objects or photographs, can also help with patience, respect, and creativity. Families can balance safety while honoring the person's feelings.
On behalf of the Dementia Society of America®, thank you again for joining me today. Stay informed, stay healthy, and take care of yourself.
Disclaimer: Dementia Society of America (DSA) provides educational content only and does not offer medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your medical care. DSA content is created by both human and computer-generated means and is reviewed for accuracy; however, errors may occur. Views expressed by third-party contributors do not necessarily reflect those of DSA. Unless expressly stated, DSA does not endorse or guarantee any third-party products, services, organizations, or external content. All DSA content is copyrighted and/or trademarked and may not be used without written permission.
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