|
I was not aware that hoarding was a disorder until recently. My dad has always "collected" various things. The last time he let me (or Anyone for that matter) into his home, was at least 12 years ago when I was 16. Since then, he said that he would just come outside and meet me because the house was too messy. At such a young age, I had no idea that there was anything I could do to help him. I moved across the county about 5 years ago and have not thought too much about this since. With Hording becoming a topic focused on heavily in the media, I have realized that something is seriously wrong and that my father may be in danger. His health has rapidly decreased. He has had a stroke, has some trouble with vision, falls down regularly, can not control his bladder, probably needs to have both of his knees replaced and can not walk on his own. The worst part is that he thinks this is all okay, that he is well and does not need help. I was home several weeks ago and confronted him pretty heavily. I told him that I wanted to go to his house to make sure he was living in a safe place. He told me that I could not come over. Although I gave a strong argument, told him I would not judge him and only want to help, he refused. So per our usual visits, we met at a restaurant to talk. My boyfriend came and was very supportive to both my father and me. My dad said he has many things to take care of before he could ever let anyone into his home. I think this is just a way to prolong us from coming over and that nothing will get done. If this continues, I am afraid that we won't get in there until we get a call that he has fallen down the stairs into a pile of trash -- and they need me to have the house condemned. Is there anything that I can do? Please help.
|
