I thought this subject needed some attention and bring some of you into the conversation because I know you are out there. I’ve read that some of the signs begin as early as 13 years old, and we will discuss some of the signs and remedies that specifically affect seniors and hoarding tendencies.
You can be a mother, father, sister or brother who has this problem or you can be a family member who knows someone who has this problem. Whatever the case may be, I am sharing my research to get the help you need, and I would also like your input and thoughts on this subject.
Hoarding is so detrimental to the family unit that some don’t want to talk or know what to do about it. Family members are at a loss, try to help, but the person with the problem, “just doesn’t listen.”
It is hurtful for a family member to see this happening. Mom and Dad or even someone dear to them.
What is Hoarding?
According to Webster’s Dictionary, the word Hoard is, precious hidden accumulation. The word precious, means, valuable and cherished.
So, why are items so precious, valuable and cherished to hoarders that they live in squalor and are almost buried alive in their own homes. I don’t know the why?
I am not a Specialist in the field of analyzing this kind of behavior. I will, in my opinion, state my feelings as the comments come into play, but my goal here is to help find resources to help the elderly find their way out of this destructive way of life.
The why’s I will leave to professionals when they intercede and bring seniors the help they need.
There is a TV show that is titled, “Hoarders” I don’t know if some of you have watched this show, but trying to watch to get some insight as to people who hoard and how they live was a feat for me, to say the least. I just couldn’t believe what I was watching. I walked away several times or went to another channel. It was that alarming to watch.
There is a vast difference between a Hoarder and a normalcy way of life and this is my take.
Have any of us collected something we like and put it on display in our homes? Absolutely. We call it collecting. Be patient and I will tell you where I am going with this.
We collect books, art, trinkets from our travels and on and on. These items can be kept through generations and some become valuable like pieces of art, but things need changing, even art is sold to the highest bidder. In our homes, when we are overburdened with stuff we will sell, give away or, have a yard sale or two. Why? Because it takes too much space in our beautiful clean homes. Not only that, but it leaves some room for change. We collect a few things but don’t clutter. This is normal behavior.
My findings to describe in my own words “A Hoarder” is simple, a hoarder “Get’s Rid of Nothing.”
Different Causes of Hoarding
I wanted to find out more about hoarding and what it means to people. I then went to my computer and started an extensive search. I found that hoarding means different things to different people, and there seems to be different causes as well.
They find excuses and blame others for their lifestyle or just want their stuff because it means so much to them.
In my opinion, Hoarding, is an emotional comfort zone that grows and, as time goes by, it is a means to bury one self in that comfort zone.
This must be addressed and there are many avenues to go to. Whether it is you with the problem or a family member, you must not wait. You must do something and seek help before this lifestyle manifests itself and takes over your very life.
Let’s talk treatment. A treatment is a means to making you feel better about yourself and a road to a more healthy lifestyle. As a Hoarder sometimes you see the word “treatment” and say, “but there is nothing wrong with me, I just like my stuff.” Well, there is something wrong, and if you are willing to take the chance, as I believe you will, or you wouldn’t be reading this. You will receive the help and be on your way to own that very statement.
In my search I came across a book titled, “Treatment for Hoarding Disorder” It is also a workbook. This book explains the many questions you may have if you are thinking about getting help. It’s a good way to start. It may help to understand what hoarding is. Here are some very good books on Hoarding:
Where to Get Help For Hoarders
If hoarding has taken over your home, or the home of someone you love and care for, you need professional help. Whatever the need to a healthy life style these are the resources I found, and they can be easily acquired.
Town or State, look up:
“American Psychiatric Association for Hoarders.”
“The Hoarding Center – International OCD Foundation.
“Staging and Intervention for Hoarders”
“Animal Hoarding” and
“Animal Hoarding Community Intervention Manual“
You can contact them on-line or find a phone number in your city or state.
In order to acquire the Test for Hoarding, please visit:
Finally, please do seek out help. These professionals in the organizations listed above are in all states and beyond. Some organizations are even international. They are your source and are committed to helping you or a loved one.
Don’t wait for Mom or Dad, who are elderly in your eyes, to be Buried Alive.
There is help out there. The known hoarder needs help and support from those who care. If you know someone who is a hoarder, please bookmark this page and use it as your resource to get the help this person needs.
Please leave your comments, and if you are a professional on this matter, I, and many others, would appreciate your advise and the resources you recommend. Thank you for your visit, I hope this article has helped you or someone you may know.
I AM
