When Collections Become “New Hoarding” in Dementia

Understanding the behavior, what drives it, and how to respond with compassion

When most people hear the word hoarding, they picture scenes from television: stacks of newspapers blocking doorways, piles of belongings spilling into every room, and just enough space to walk in a narrow path. In dementia, however, there is another kind of “hoarding” — one that looks different but can be equally puzzling for families.

Instead of decades-old clutter, this is often a collection of items acquired more recently. Imagine a home where every wall is lined with picture frames, each shelf holds rows of figurines, or every closet contains handbags, scarves, or knick-knacks — and yet the person continues to bring home more. This “new hoarding” may appear suddenly, even in people who were once minimalists, and it often leaves loved ones wondering: Why is this happening?

Why “New Hoarding” Happens in Dementia

Dementia affects the brain’s ability to remember, process, and make decisions. As these abilities change, the person may begin to keep or acquire more items, even when they already have plenty. This can happen for several reasons:

• Loss of memory — They may genuinely not remember owning the same item already.

• Need for control — Familiar objects create a sense of stability in an unpredictable world.

• Fear of loss — Belongings can feel like a safety net during times of uncertainty.

• Difficulty organizing — Sorting and letting go of possessions becomes overwhelming.

• Misinterpretation — Attempts to tidy up can be seen as theft or punishment.

It’s About Comfort, Not Clutter

Unlike chronic hoarding disorder, where the accumulation is often tied to lifelong emotional patterns, new hoarding in dementia is a response to cognitive changes and emotional needs in the moment.

That’s why removing items without permission can backfire — it may heighten anxiety, damage trust, and even cause agitation.

A Compassionate Approach

The goal isn’t to “fix” the behavior or strip away possessions, but to balance safety with respect for their emotional world.

1. Validate First, Then Redirect

Instead of saying, “You don’t need more purses,” try, “This one is beautiful — let’s put it with your favorites so you always know where it is.”

2. Contain, Don’t Eliminate

Choose a specific “treasure area” — a shelf, a drawer, or a decorative box — where special items can be displayed or stored.

3. Swap, Don’t Take Away

If an item is unsafe or excessive, replace it with something safe and similar (e.g., swap an overstuffed handbag for a lighter, cleaner one).

4. Offer Safe Sorting Activities

Give them opportunities to handle and arrange objects, such as folding scarves, sorting costume jewelry, or organizing postcards.

5. Manage the Inflow

Reduce exposure to triggers for more collecting — fewer catalogs, limited shopping trips, and alternative activities that provide the same sense of purpose.

When to Seek Extra Help

If the behavior causes safety hazards — blocked pathways, fire risks, or unsafe items like spoiled food — or if it’s paired with suspicion or aggression, it’s time to consult a dementia-trained occupational therapist, care manager, or behavioral specialist.

The Takeaway

In dementia, new hoarding is less about stubbornness and more about seeking comfort, familiarity, and a sense of control. By understanding the “why” and approaching it with empathy, families can keep their loved ones safe without stripping away the small joys and reassurances those possessions bring.