Caring for someone with dementia is profoundly challenging, and one of the lesser-discussed aspects of this journey is how it affects housekeeping and hoarding behaviors. As a family member, it can be difficult to watch these changes unfold. Here’s a deeper look at why these changes happen and some practical advice for managing them.
Understanding the Changes
Dementia affects the brain in ways that can significantly disrupt a person’s routine and ability to manage daily tasks. This can lead to a noticeable decline in how well they keep up with housekeeping and personal hygiene, which might be a stark departure from their previous habits. It’s not just forgetfulness about putting things away, but a broader decline in the ability to plan, organize, and follow through with cleaning and tidying.
Hoarding Behaviors in Dementia
Hoarding is not uncommon in individuals with dementia. This behavior typically stems from the anxiety that losing items will mean losing cherished memories, leading to the accumulation of items to an excessive degree. Unlike chronic hoarding that develops over many years, dementia-related hoarding can start suddenly and escalate as the illness progresses.
Emotional Impact and Safety Concerns
It can be very distressing to see your loved one living in increasingly cluttered or dirty conditions. Besides the emotional strain, the physical safety risks are real—clutter can create tripping hazards, attract pests, or even become a fire hazard if not addressed.
Practical Tips for Managing Housekeeping and Hoarding
- Establish Simple Routines: Simplify cleaning tasks into small, manageable steps. This can make it easier for your loved one to follow along and perhaps even participate to some extent.
- Secure and Simplify the Environment: Too much clutter can be confusing. Try to keep the living space as orderly and labeled as possible, which can help reduce anxiety and confusion.
- Consider Professional Help: Sometimes, it might be necessary to bring in professional cleaning help. Also, therapists and professional organizers who specialize in geriatric care can offer substantial support.
- Keep Safety a Priority: Regular checks around the home to remove any new clutter or hazards can prevent accidents. Keeping pathways clear is especially important.
- Connect with Others: Look for support groups for families dealing with dementia. Sharing your experiences and hearing others’ can provide not only emotional support but also practical tips.
Seeking Professional Guidance
As the disease progresses, managing these behaviors can become increasingly difficult. Consulting with professionals who specialize in elderly care can provide you with strategies tailored to your situation, helping you manage the day-to-day challenges while also planning for the future.
The journey of dementia is fraught with challenges, and changes in housekeeping and hoarding behaviors are just a part of the broader picture that families must manage. Remember, you’re not alone, support is available, and it’s perfectly okay to ask for help when you need it.
Contact Divine Favour Healthcare Staffing Inc. today to learn more about our senior companionship services. We’re dedicated to helping seniors live fuller, happier lives. Reach us at 647-766-5394 for more information about the services we offer in Toronto, the GTA, Niagara Falls, Niagara Region, Ottawa, Kitchener-Waterloo, Markham, and Richmond Hill, Ontario.