October 2011 -
For the past few months, I have been involved with a home transition, involving a person who has stockpiled belongings for years. Most know this as 'hoarding'. Sadly, many folks suffer from this compulsion, and for family members this can be a frustration and heartbreaking task to undertake. In most cases, the Department of Aging can take action to make a person leave the home, because of safety and health issues. The most difficult part is the process of 'where do you begin' cleaning up!?
Knowing how much is involved, my services now include clearing and cleaning homes with this scenario. I will be sensitive to the person living in the home, as well as direct a way to find support through your Family Services.
In some cases, I find that taking the homeowner away from the home for a period of time - will alleviate stress involved with the cleaning/clearing up. It could be considered even a time to create a vacation - and leave the task of clearing things out to me.
Whatever way works to begin this process - for many clearing and cleaning can be more of a relief for the homeowner. Many people who suffer from this compulsion have often shared feelings of shame and sadness. It is overwhelming, to say the least. Still it is something that has to be addressed for the safety of the person living in a cluttered home.
I know that I can not address the illness that goes along with the material and physical issues. I would leave that to the health professionals, and encourage anyone to find someone who can address this with compassion. For many baby boomers, who are now faced with the task of taking care of their parents - please don't wait until it creates a bigger problem - where your parent is hospitalized or worse.
For myself, it took over 3 years to begin this task - and sadly not soon enough. I know that freedom of lifestyle is important. When it becomes a problem to where it creates a breakdown in the family unit, I personally had to step in to begin the process. And at times, it was not easy...actually, it never was easy.
