What should I do if my mom with Alzheimer’s keeps hoarding items
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be a challenging and emotionally draining experience. You may find yourself facing unexpected behaviors and challenges as the disease progresses. One behavior that can be particularly worrying and difficult to manage is hoarding. If your mom has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and you have noticed a pattern of hoarding, it is important to understand the reasons behind this behavior and how to handle it effectively.
What is Hoarding?
Hoarding is a disorder that is characterized by an excessive accumulation of items, regardless of their value or usefulness. People who hoard often have difficulty parting with possessions and may feel a strong emotional attachment to them. In the case of someone with Alzheimer’s, hoarding can be even more pronounced due to the changes in their brain and thought processes.
Why Does my Mom Hoard Items?
Alzheimer’s affects the brain in various ways, including memory loss, changes in behavior, and difficulty with decision-making. This can lead to hoarding behaviors as your mom may struggle to remember what items she already has, have difficulty making decisions about what to keep or throw away, and feel a sense of comfort and familiarity in having familiar objects around her.
In addition, hoarding can also be a coping mechanism for people with Alzheimer’s. They may feel anxious or overwhelmed by their surroundings, and hoarding provides a sense of control and security. It is important to remember that your mom’s hoarding is not a deliberate act to cause distress but is a result of the disease.
How Should I Approach the Situation?
The most crucial step in managing your mom’s hoarding behavior is to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. It is crucial to remember that your mom is not purposely trying to cause distress or inconvenience; it is a symptom of her disease.
Avoid getting angry or frustrated, as this may only worsen the situation. Instead, try to understand the underlying reasons for the hoarding behavior and approach your mom with kindness and compassion.
How Can I Help my Mom with Hoarding?
1. Educate Yourself
The first step in helping your mom with hoarding is to educate yourself about the disease and its effects on behavior. This will help you understand why your mom is hoarding and how best to handle the situation.
2. Create a Plan
It is essential to have a plan in place before tackling the hoarding behavior. This will help you stay organized and focused on the task at hand. Involve your mom in the planning process to give her a sense of control and involvement.
3. Be Patient
Hoarding is a complex behavior, and it will not be resolved overnight. Be patient with your mom and avoid rushing her or forcing her to get rid of items. This can cause distress and may even escalate the hoarding behavior.
4. Sort Through Items Together
Instead of just getting rid of items behind your mom’s back, involve her in the process of sorting through items. This will give her a sense of control, and she may be more willing to part with items that are no longer useful or needed.
5. Address Safety Concerns
Hoarding can create safety hazards, such as cluttered pathways or expired food items. It is crucial to address these concerns to ensure your mom’s safety. You may need to remove items that pose a risk, but do so with sensitivity and understanding.
6. Seek Professional Help
If your mom’s hoarding behavior is severe and affecting her daily life, it may be necessary to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor with experience in Alzheimer’s and hoarding can provide guidance and support for both you and your mom.
Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be a challenging journey, but remember that you are not alone. Seek support from family, friends, and healthcare professionals to help you navigate through this difficult time.
In conclusion, if your mom with Alzheimer’s is hoarding items, it is essential to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Educate yourself about the disease, create a plan, be patient, involve your mom in the process, address safety concerns, and seek professional help if needed. With patience, understanding, and support, you can help your mom manage her hoarding behavior and provide her with a safe and comfortable environment.
