Some dementia patients hoard objects around the house because of changes in their brain that affect how they think, feel, and organize their surroundings. As dementia progresses, the part of the brain responsible for decision-making and organizing—called the prefrontal cortex—does not work as well. This makes it hard for them to decide what to keep or throw away, so they often keep everything to avoid making difficult choices. The mental effort needed to sort through belongings becomes overwhelming, leading to accumulation of items over time.
Emotional factors also play a big role. Dementia can cause feelings of loss, confusion, and anxiety. Holding onto objects may provide comfort or a sense of security, especially if the person is grieving or has experienced trauma, such as losing a loved one or moving to a new place. These items might seem meaningless to others but can feel very valuable to the person with dementia, serving as a way to fill emotional gaps.
Social isolation can worsen hoarding behavior. When someone lives alone or has little social contact, there is less external motivation or help to keep their living space organized. Without regular interaction or support, clutter can build up unnoticed.
In some cases, hoarding in dementia is linked to a condition called Diogenes syndrome, where people show extreme self-neglect, social withdrawal, and compulsive hoarding of trash or possessions. This syndrome is often related to damage in the brain’s frontal lobe, which controls judgment and impulse control.
It’s important to understand that hoarding in dementia is not simply about being messy or stubborn. It reflects deeper cognitive and emotional challenges caused by the disease. Helping someone with dementia who hoards requires patience, empathy, and often professional support to manage both their environment and their emotional needs.
