• A person has difficulty making decisions and/or categorizing items
• A person has an intense fear of making a mistake, losing an item, or losing memory
• A person has diminished cognitive capacity and/or physical limitations
Why Hoarding is a Problem:
• Fire hazard
• Public health hazard
• Infestation
• Fall and tripping hazard
• Access obstructed for emergency rescue
How do I have a conversation with my friend or family member who is ready to talk about hoarding?
When a person seems willing to talk about a hoarding problem, follow these guidelines:
DO:
• Be patient
• Be a cheerleader
• Start with small steps
• Help with the hauling
• Work in one small area at a time
• Help maintain focus on the tasks at hand
• Stop new items from being brought in to the home
DO NOT:
• Pass judgment
• Argue with the person
• Make decisions for the person
• Remove any item without permission