Understanding Hoarding Behavior Among Older Adults

Abstract

Hoarding behavior is an unrecognized but increasing problem among older adults that seriously threatens the quality of their daily lives. This study describes four hoarding cases; how each was identified, processed and resolved. Written records and interviews were obtained from Adult Protective Services, Office of the Public Guardian and city Police Department. Two cases were single women, one was a single man and one a married couple. Both single women were relocated to independent subsidized housing. The single man was placed under guardianship of the state but died at a local hospital. The couple's home had to be destroyed, and they were placed in a nursing home by a court order. Recommendations are made for earlier identification, intervention, treatment, potential prevention and more effective communication between service agencies.

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