An 86-year-old woman living alone on Jalan Mano, Georgetown, Penang, had to be rescued after becoming trapped inside her home filled with piles of trash and recyclables. Over the years, she had accumulated a large amount of waste, making the house almost impossible to navigate.
Trash Built Up Over the Years
The elderly woman’s habit of collecting recyclables and used items had led to a massive buildup of trash throughout the two-storey house. The clutter filled nearly every part of the interior and spilled onto the porch, where three cars were parked.
Her family grew increasingly worried, especially after she started calling them for help in the middle of the night when she fell and couldn’t move through the clutter.
According to NST, on October 13, around 4:40 PM, the Civil Defence Force was called to the scene after her family reached out for help. Her relatives said she was struggling with health issues and was unable to get out of the house because of the piles of trash.
Rescue Team Steps In
Four Civil Defence Force members arrived at the house to help. They carefully used a stretcher to carry the woman out, making their way through the narrow paths created by the clutter. The rescue effort involved careful maneuvering to get her out safely.
Health Problems Made Matters Worse
The elderly woman was dealing with several health issues, including diabetes, high blood pressure, hearing problems, and general weakness. Her health was made worse by the conditions in the house, which also made it hard for her to leave on her own.
After being rescued, she received first-aid treatment. Her family said they were planning to move her to a nearby care home, with her agreement, as they believed it would be a safer environment given her health issues and frequent falls.
The Woman’s Response
Although the situation seemed serious, the elderly woman insisted that she was managing. When reporters visited, she spoke from an upstairs window, initially appearing upset but later explaining that she had tried to arrange for cleaners, but they didn’t show up. She also mentioned that she did not cook at home and usually ordered food.
What is Hoarding?
Hoarding is a mental health condition characterized by persistent difficulty discarding items, leading to excessive accumulation and clutter in living spaces. It often stems from anxiety, trauma, or other emotional factors, making it challenging for individuals to part with possessions, regardless of their actual value.
How to Overcome Hoarding
- Seek Professional Help: Working with a mental health professional can help address the underlying issues related to hoarding, often through cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT).
- Start Small and Set Goals: Begin decluttering with a small area and set realistic milestones to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Involving friends or family can also provide valuable support during the process.
By taking these steps, individuals can work towards regaining control over their living spaces and improving their well-being.
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