Hoarding Concerns Rise As Population Of Community-Dwelling Older Adults Increases: National Response Recommended

The rise in hoarding disorder as America ages requires a national response, according to a new report by the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging. Hoarding disorder affects as many as 14 million in the U.S. (2% of the population). The condition tends to worsen as people get older, with 6% of those over age 70 affected by the disorder. Hoarding disorder is defined as a condition that leads people to accumulate more objects than their homes can accommodate.

For older adults, the consequences of hoarding disorder include health and safety risks, social isolation, eviction, and homelessness. For . . .