What you need to know – Hoarding Disorder

Hoarding disorder (HD) is the condition associated with hoarding.  HD can become worse with time.  It most often affects adults, though teenagers may show hoarding tendencies as well.  HD is classified as a disorder in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.

People save large number of items whether they have a worth or not. Newspapers, magazines, paper products, household goods, animals, and clothing.  HD can lead to dangerous clutter.

How do you know if you’re a hoarder?

According to the Mayo Clinic, some key symptoms to watch out for if you believe you or someone you know may be a hoarder are: Cluttered living spaces. Moving items from one pile to another without the ability to throw anything away. Acquiring useless items, including trash, newspapers, and magazines.

How to help older adults avoid hoarding?

How to Help Older Adults Avoid Hoarding Know the Risk Factors. Seniors may begin to hoard if they live with certain physical or mental impairments. – Emphasize Safety.  Disabled, Older Adults, and Seniors need clear walking paths to prevent falls, and some older adults may hoard things that are unsafe. Provide Housekeeping Assistance. – Schedule Regular Cleanups.