The impulse to accumulate things may be a genetic leftover from the days of our ancestors, when survival depended on having enough food to get through lean times and the necessity of making everything by one’s self. When shopping for a new winter coat involves hunting down a mammoth, you ‘re probably more inclined to hang on to it for a while.
In the elderly, clutter can present significant risks. Health issues or even the simple process of aging may make it harder for them to keep the house as neat and organized as they once did. They may trip over objects on the floor or have trouble negotiating a room crowded with too many things, leading to dangerous falls. Declining eyesight or depth perception issues due to Alzheimer’s may make it more difficult to see potential obstacles, or find essential items like eyeglasses or medication. Blocked electrical outlets, exits, and piles of flammable material represent a fire hazard. Loneliness may make some seniors more prone to buying things they don’t need to compensate for the lack of companionship, leading to more clutter.
If you notice a new level of clutter in the home of someone you love, it could be a sign that something serious is going on. Call McKenney Home Care for a free home safety and nursing assessment.