Category: Blog

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Over the past decade, hoarding has been in the spotlight. Popular media and TV shows focus on extreme cases and portray it as messiness or laziness, but it is, in fact, far more complex. Hoarding is a mental health condition that affects how people think, feel, and make decisions about their possessions, and, often, about their sense of safety and identity.

What Is Hoarding?

Hoarding Disorder (HD) is characterized by persistent difficulty throwing away or parting with possessions, regardless of their monetary value. This difficulty comes from a strong emotional attachment to items or a fear of losing something important. Someone with HD may also associate their sense of who they are with the items they accumulate throughout their life.

How Common is Hoarding?

According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, about 2-3% of adults or roughly 6.86-10.29 million people in the United States are affected by HD. In addition, the National Library of Medicine estimates that about 6% of adults over the age of 60-70 struggle with HD, with the United States Senate reporting similar numbers (about 6% of adults over age 70).

In long-term care settings, data shows that HD is common in approximately 25% of those who attend social day care and approximately 15% of nursing home residents.

Why People Hoard

Understanding the reasons why people hoard is essential for responding with empathy rather than judgment. Common reasons for hoarding include:

• Emotional attachment: Objects may have a deep sentimental value and represent memories, relationships, or a sense of comfort.
• Fear and anxiety: Worries about needing an item in the future or making the “wrong” decision by throwing it away.
• Trauma or loss: Hoarding can develop as a coping mechanism after the individual experiences grief, abuse, or sudden life changes.
• Decision-making difficulties: Sorting and prioritizing can feel overwhelming.

The Impact of Hoarding

Left unaddressed, hoarding can affect overall quality of life. It can have serious consequences for individuals, as well as their families.

• Cluttered spaces can increase the risk of falls, especially in older adults.
• Mold and pest infestations can affect the person’s physical health, as well as the community. For example, some pests can transmit diseases and cause the spread of illnesses.
• Clutter can result in fires.
• Hoarding can result in shame and social isolation, affecting the emotional and mental well-being of the individual.

Why “Just Clean It Up” Doesn’t Work

Effective support focuses not just on the belongings, but on the person. One of the biggest misunderstandings about hoarding is that it can be solved by simply throwing things away and cleaning the space. In reality, forced or sudden decluttering often causes intense distress and can make the problem worse. When the underlying thoughts and emotions aren’t addressed, clutter usually returns. Sometimes, hoarding can become more severe than before.

Approaches to Help and Healing

Therapy

Behavioral Health approaches tailored to hoarding can help individuals better understand their beliefs about possessions. Addressing the reasons why someone has HD is important in addressing the root cause of the issue.

Gradual Decluttering

Small, manageable steps can reduce overwhelm and build confidence that there is a solution.

Compassionate Support

Family and friends who listen without judgment can make a powerful difference.

Professional Help

Trained therapists, social workers, or professional organizers experienced with hoarding disorders can provide assistance, structure and safety.

How to Support Someone Who Hoards

If you care about someone who struggles with hoarding, patience and empathy are key. Avoid shaming language, ultimatums, or cleaning up without consent.

Instead, focus on making the individual feel safe, and listen to their concerns and fears. Provide assistance, take things a step at a time, and celebrate small victories. Remind them that they are not alone—you are there to help, and you can seek the help of professionals and community resources. Remember that trust is essential, and change happens at the person’s own pace.

For CenterLight Healthcare PACE Participants and Caregivers

If you or your loved one is affected by HD, contact your social worker or speak with a member of the CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) care team. We provide supportive social work services and referrals to behavioral health management to participants as needed.

A Message of Compassion

It is important to bear in mind that hoarding is not a moral failing. It is often rooted in emotional and mental health. With understanding, support, and compassion, people who hoard can make meaningful progress. By shifting the conversation from judgment to empathy, we open the door to real help and real hope.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE se compromete a proporcionar información precisa relacionada con la salud para ayudar a las personas a vivir bien, mantenerse sanas y tomar decisiones bien informadas sobre la atención sanitaria. La información contenida en este material es estrictamente educativa. Recomendamos a los usuarios que consulten con su proveedor médico acerca de su atención.

About the Author

This blog post is written by Kim Sodano, LCSW, LNHA, Director of Social Work at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

In her own words:

"I became a social worker to make a positive impact toward social change. Being an advocate for individuals and communities while witnessing resilience and transformation is extremely rewarding."

Fuentes:

What Is Hoarding Disorder? Symptoms, Causes, and Evidence-Based Care, Anxiety and Depression Association of America https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/what-is-hoarding-disorder

United States Census https://www.census.gov/popclock/

Age-specific prevalence of hoarding and obsessive compulsive disorder: a population-based study, National Library of Medicine https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5316500/

The Consequences of Clutter https://www.aging.senate.gov/imo/media/doc/the_consequences_of_clutter.pdf

Hoarding Behavior in the Elderly: A Comparison Between Community-Dwelling Persons and Nursing Home Residents https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1041610224045009?

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_Hoarding
Updated January 20, 2026

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Winter can be a beautiful season, but it also brings challenges—especially when it comes to staying steady on your feet. Cold temperatures, icy surfaces, and bulky clothing can increase the risk of slips and falls. With a few practical steps, you can enjoy winter while staying safe and confident.

Why Winter Increases Fall Risk

During winter months, falls are more common due to:

• Ice and snow on walkways
• Wet floors due to rain or snow
• Reduced daylight and visibility
• Stiff joints and muscles in cold weather
• Wearing heavier or unfamiliar footwear

The good news is that many falls are preventable with awareness and preparation.

Stay Steady Outdoors

When going outside during winter, keep the following in mind:

• Wear supportive, non-slip shoes with good traction. Avoid smooth soles.
• Take small, slow steps and allow extra time to get where you’re going.
• Use handrails whenever available, especially on steps and ramps.
• Watch for black ice, which can be very dangerous and hard to see.
• Consider using a cane or walker if recommended—it provides extra stability.

If conditions are icy and unsafe, it’s okay to stay indoors and ask for help when possible.

Keep Your Home Fall-Proof

Simple changes at home can greatly reduce your risk of falling:

• Keep floors dry and clutter-free.
• Remove loose rugs or secure them with non-slip backing.
• Ensure good lighting, especially in hallways and bathrooms. Night lights can also help.
• Wear non-slip socks or shoes indoors.
• Use grab bars in the bathroom if available.

Keep Moving—Safely

Staying active helps maintain strength, balance, and flexibility, even in winter.

• Continue with your rehabilitation exercises as advised by your physical or occupational therapist. Consult a rehabilitation therapist or medical professional to find out what exercise is right for you.
• Gentle stretching helps reduce stiffness caused by cold weather.
• Let your rehabilitation therapist or medical professional know if you feel weaker, dizzy, or unsteady.

Strong muscles and good balance are some of the best defenses against falls.

Dress for Safety and Warmth

• Wear layers to stay warm without restricting movement.
• Avoid long coats, scarves, or pants that may drag on the ground and cause you to trip.
• Keep hands warm with gloves to maintain a good grip on rails or walking aids.

Listen to Your Body

Falls often happen when we’re in a hurry. If you feel tired, dizzy, or unsteady:

• Stop and rest.
• Sit down if needed.
• Don’t rush, especially when standing up from a chair or bed.

For CenterLight Healthcare PACE Participants

We're Here to Help

At CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), our participants' safety and independence are our priority. Please talk to your Rehabilitation Team if:

• You’ve had a recent fall or near-fall.
• You feel less confident walking.
• You’d like help reviewing your home safety or walking aids.

Your safety matters to us, and small changes can make a big difference.

Final Thought

Winter doesn’t have to limit your independence. By staying aware, prepared, and supported, you can move through the season with confidence and peace of mind.

Stay safe, stay warm, and remember that you are not alone.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE se compromete a proporcionar información precisa relacionada con la salud para ayudar a las personas a vivir bien, mantenerse sanas y tomar decisiones bien informadas sobre la atención sanitaria. La información contenida en este material es estrictamente educativa. Recomendamos a los usuarios que consulten con su proveedor médico acerca de su atención.

About the Author

This blog post is written by Tatyana Brisman, PT, Regional Rehabilitation Manager at CenterLight Healthcare PACE. Tatyana celebrated her 20th year of working at CenterLight in 2025.

In her own words:

"Over the years, my responsibilities have evolved, but my mission has remained the same: to ensure our participants are safe in their communities by providing high quality care and being a supportive, collaborative member of the care team. Being a Physical Therapist is more than just a job—it’s a calling. And I’m grateful every day to be part of a field that makes such a difference in people's lives."

Source: Geriatric Winter Falls: When a Simple Bump on the Ice Can be Serious, Mayo Clinic

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_WinterFallTips2026
Updated January 8, 2026

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As we age, our healthcare needs often become more complex, making preventive care increasingly important. For older adults, staying proactive about health can lead to a more vibrant and independent life. Start 2026 right and make wellness your goal – not only for yourself, but for those who love and care about you!

What is Preventive Care?

The goal of preventive care is to identify potential health issues early to prevent them from getting worse. This involves regular check-ups and screenings, vaccinations, and making lifestyle choices that can help prevent illness and support healthy aging.

At CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), our goal is to catch problems early or help prevent them altogether, so that our participants can avoid unnecessary hospital stays and remain living in their own home and communities for as long as possible. The importance of Preventive Care is illustrated by the average emergency department visit and hospital admission rates in our participants compared to the nationwide rate:

In general, Preventive Care includes:

• Regular visits to your primary care provider and annual physical exams can facilitate early detection of issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic diseases.
• Recommended screenings include cholesterol, cancer (such as colon, breast, and prostate), blood pressure, osteoporosis, vision, and hearing tests.
• Regular dental visits.
• Immunizations like the flu shot, shingles vaccine, pneumococcal vaccine, and COVID-19 boosters help prevent serious illnesses that can be especially dangerous for older adults.
• Screening for depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline is crucial for emotional well-being and social engagement.
• Regular medication reviews ensure what you are taking is still appropriate for your current condition and help prevent harmful drug interactions or side effects.

Overcoming Barriers to Preventive Care

Older adults may face challenges such as transportation, limited movement, financial constraints, or lack of awareness about available services. Family members, caregivers, and community organizations can play a vital role in helping them access preventive care.

If you are a CenterLight Healthcare PACE participant, remember that you have access to transportation to and from your medical appointments and the PACE center. See your medical provider regularly. In addition, your care team, made up of doctors, nurses, physical and occupational therapists, social workers, dietitians, and therapeutic recreation specialists, among others, will schedule assessments every six months to ensure that your care plan is up to date. Notify your care team regarding any change in condition so that we can help right away.

In conclusion...

Preventive care is a cornerstone of healthy aging. By staying informed, attending regular check-ups, and embracing healthy habits, older adults can enjoy a higher quality of life. If you or your loved ones are unsure where to start, consult a healthcare provider to develop a personalized preventive care plan. Small steps today can lead to big benefits tomorrow.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE se compromete a proporcionar información precisa relacionada con la salud para ayudar a las personas a vivir bien, mantenerse sanas y tomar decisiones bien informadas sobre la atención sanitaria. La información contenida en este material es estrictamente educativa. Recomendamos a los usuarios que consulten con su proveedor médico acerca de su atención.

About the Author

Patricia Connelly serves as Chief Operations Officer at CenterLight Healthcare. Inspired by her mother who is a retired registered nurse, Patty built her career around a passion for caring for others. When asked what she enjoys most about working in healthcare, Patty shares that engaging with the participants who rely on CenterLight for their care is the most rewarding and fulfilling part of her role. “It is inspiring to hear their stories and to know that we make a meaningful difference in their lives,” she says.

Fuentes:

National Center for Health Statistics | The Commonwealth Fund

CenterLight data obtained through monthly Quality Performance Improvement measures.

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_PreventiveCare2026
Updated January 5, 2026

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Winter in New York can be beautiful -- but this time of year can also increase social isolation and intensify feelings of loneliness, especially in older adults. Changes in their health can make it harder to connect with others, especially when shorter days, harsh weather, and icy conditions limit their ability to go out and interact with others. In addition, distance from family may lead to emotional isolation.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 in 3 adults in the United States report feeling lonely, and about 1 in 4 adults report not having social and emotional support.

But there's good news: with awareness and proactive support, older adults can enjoy being more connected, not only during the winter months, but every day.

Preventing Social Isolation

1. Encourage Regular Social Interaction

Meaningful connection doesn’t always require large gatherings. Small gestures can make a big difference, helping older adults feel remembered. Consistent phone and video calls, and even cards and letters, can help ease loneliness this time of year. Schedule a visit, and encourage your loved one to speak with friends and neighbors.

2. Help Them Join Community Activities

Community centers, senior programs, faith groups, and recreation programs often host events that promote social engagement and give older adults a sense of belonging.

CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) participants have access to our PACE centers, where they can enjoy activities with their peers, nutritious meals, and more than 100 other activities per month, designed according to their cultural and personal preferences.

3. Support Hobbies and Creative Outlets

Participating in enjoyable activities such as arts and crafts, painting, sing-alongs, and games boosts mood and encourages interaction. Hobbies can create natural opportunities to socialize while supporting emotional wellness.

4. Encourage Daily Exercise

According to the Mayo Clinic, regular exercise may help ease depression and anxiety by releasing feel-good endorphins and taking someone's mind off worries. Even small amounts of physical activity, such as being active for 10 to 15 minute intervals during the day can make a positive impact.

5. Make Transportation Accessible

A major barrier to social connection is simply getting from place to place. In the winter, this is made worse by icy walkways and roads and harsh weather. CenterLight PACE participants have access to transportation to and from their medical appointments, as well as CenterLight PACE centers. In general, older adults in the community may be able to minimize feeling unsafe or dependent on others through community shuttle services and senior transportation programs.

6. Look After Emotional Health

Emotional needs are especially important. Families and caregivers can:

• Ask questions about how the older adult is feeling.
• Help the older adult join support groups, where they can interact with like-minded peers.
• Encourage their loved one to seek professional help if signs of anxiety or depression appear.
• Provide companionship and support.

By taking intentional steps to support older adults through communication, community, meaningful activities, accessible transportation, and emotional care, we can help older adults feel more connected and supported.

Esta entrada del blog ha sido escrita por:

Kathleen Keegan, Directora de Recreación Terapéutica de CenterLight Healthcare PACE

Kimberly Sodano, LCSW, Directora de Trabajo Social en CenterLight Healthcare PACE

Sources:

Health Effects of Social Isolation and Loneliness, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, May 2024

Depression and Anxiety: Exercise Eases Symptoms, Mayo Clinic

H3329 NoPOInfo SocialIsolationWinter blog
Updated December 22, 2025

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As winter settles over New York State, older adults face unique challenges that can make the colder months more difficult, and sometimes more dangerous. From icy sidewalks and frigid temperatures to unpredictable storms, staying safe requires preparation and awareness. In this blog, CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) Vice President of Clinical Operations Heather Ogando, MD, walks us through essential winter safety tips tailored for older New Yorkers to help you or your loved ones stay warm and healthy all season long.

Changes that come with aging can make it more difficult for older adults during cold weather. According to the National Institute on Aging, the following conditions can make it harder for them to stay warm:

• Diabetes can prevent blood from flowing normally to provide warmth.
• Thyroid problems can affect the body’s ability to maintain a normal body temperature.
• Conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease and arthritis can affect movement and make it challenging to put on layers of clothes, use a blanket, or get out of the cold.
• Memory issues can cause a person to forget to take precautions for staying weather-safe, such as wearing appropriate attire.

If you are taking medications, speak with your medical provider to find out if any of them can affect how you deal with the cold. Make sure that you tell your medical provider about all your medications, including over-the-counter (OTC). Having all the information can help them determine any interactions, how your treatment may be affecting you, and advise you on the appropriate course of action.

Plan Ahead!

It is important that you prepare for winter weather. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists the following items that you can include in your emergency supplies list:

Here are other helpful tips to prepare for cold weather:

If you or a loved one are over 65 years old, place an easy-to-read thermometer in an indoor location where you will see it frequently. Our ability to feel a change in temperature decreases with age. Older adults are more susceptible to health problems caused by cold. Check the temperature of your home often during the winter months.*

With extreme cold temperatures, water pipes can freeze in your home. Keep a water supply to ensure you have enough, especially in cases of winter storms that last more than a day.

Your diet is also an important factor that can help you stay warm. Consult your dietitian regarding a well-balanced meal plan for the winter. Remember that caffeinated beverages and alcohol can also cause your body to lose heat faster.

Dress appropriately for the weather. If you are leaving the house, wear a thick coat, hat, scarf, and gloves. If you are going out, remember that winter conditions can increase the likelihood of falls. Click here for tips on how to prevent falls during the winter season.

For CenterLight PACE Participants

CenterLight Healthcare PACE participants are encouraged to speak with members of their care team to ensure that they can deal with extreme winter weather. Participants may also attend the CenterLight PACE Centers during their hours of operation to keep out of the cold by enjoying fun activities, nutritious meals, and access to open gym. To find out the schedule for your site or to schedule your attendance, please call 1-833-252-2737 (TTY 711), 8AM-8PM Monday-Friday.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE se compromete a proporcionar información precisa relacionada con la salud para ayudar a las personas a vivir bien, mantenerse sanas y tomar decisiones bien informadas sobre la atención sanitaria. La información contenida en este material es estrictamente educativa. Recomendamos a los usuarios que consulten con su proveedor médico acerca de su atención.

This blog post is written by Heather Ogando, MD, Vice President of Clinical Operations at CenterLight Healthcare PACE.

Fuentes:

*Preparing for a Winter Storm, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, February 7, 2024

Extreme Cold: A Prevention Guide to Promote Your Personal Health and Safety, Center for Disease and Control and Prevention

Cold Weather Safety for Older Adults, National Institute on Aging

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Updated December 9, 2025

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Why it's important when you or a loved one is facing serious illness

Palliative Care, and the medical specialty of Palliative Care Medicine, provides relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. The goal is to improve quality of life for both you and your family.

You Are Not Alone

Palliative Care is provided by doctors, nurses and social workers who work together with patients' other doctors to provide an extra layer of support. It is appropriate at any age and any stage in a serious illness, and it can be provided along with curative treatment.

What to Expect

At CenterLight Healthcare Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), qualified participants will receive care from an Interdisciplinary Team, which includes, but is not limited to physicians, nurses, social workers, and rehabilitation and recreation therapists. Together with your doctor, we make sure that you receive:

Relief from symptoms including pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, constipation, nausea, loss of appetite, numbness, problems with sleep and much more.

Improved ability to tolerate medical treatments and the side effects of the disease.

Coordination of care among all of your health care providers.

In-depth communication with you and your family about your goals, concerns, and treatment options.

Improved ability to carry on with daily life.

Emotional, practical, and spiritual support for you and your family.

Begin Palliative Care Early

Palliative care can occur at the same time as all other treatments for your illness. There's no reason to wait. In fact, some studies* have shown that palliative care may extend life. Pain and other symptoms affect your quality of life, and stress can have a big impact on your family. Unlike with hospice, your care team will remain the same, your home care hours will be based on need, and you can receive physical or occupational therapy and/or dietary services as needed.**

You may already have been referred for palliative care services. If you would like more information, speak to your primary care physician, nurse or social worker. If you have questions, please call us at 1-833-CL-CARES (TTY 711), 8AM-8PM, Monday-Friday.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE se compromete a proporcionar información precisa relacionada con la salud para ayudar a las personas a vivir bien, mantenerse sanas y tomar decisiones bien informadas sobre la atención sanitaria. La información contenida en este material es estrictamente educativa. Recomendamos a los usuarios que consulten con su proveedor médico acerca de su atención.

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_Palliative Care
Updated November 12, 2025

Source: Center to Advance Palliative Care
*Example: Tulane University Study, 2019 | **As determined by the Interdisciplinary Team.

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Regardless of your age, good nutrition has a huge impact on health. But as we get older, what we eat is even more essential, because it can help prevent many of the common health conditions that afflict seniors. Here are just a few of the ways that proper nutrition can help older adults treat and prevent illness, and enhance their overall quality of life.

High Blood Pressure Management

High Blood Pressure is a leading risk factor for stroke, heart disease, dementia, and many other health issues that impact older adults. While medication is important, proper nutrition – including a diet high in fruits and vegetables, and
low in sodium and sugar – can also make a real difference.

Diabetes Management

Beyond medication, proper diet can help control diabetes, and help prevent the potential complications it can cause, such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Weight Maintenance

Many older adults become thin, frail, and susceptible to illnesses and infections. A healthy diet is essential for keeping the body strong and to maintain a healthy immune system.

Obesity Prevention

Since obesity contributes to arthritis, diabetes and heart conditions, maintaining a healthy weight is important for seniors. Getting guidance from a nutrition professional can help seniors lose weight.

To download a copy of this educational material, please click here.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE se compromete a proporcionar información precisa relacionada con la salud para ayudar a las personas a vivir bien, mantenerse sanas y tomar decisiones bien informadas sobre la atención sanitaria. La información contenida en este material es estrictamente educativa. Recomendamos a los usuarios que consulten con su proveedor médico acerca de su atención.

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Updated September 23, 2025

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Eating right is all about balance. You can enjoy good food if it’s part of your healthy eating plan. The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends making healthy food and drink choices that:

• Include fruits, vegetables, grains, proteins, and low fat dairy.
• Are low in saturated fat, sodium, and added sugars.
• Are based on the right amount of calories for you based on your age, sex, height, weight, and physical activity level.

According to the USDA, healthy eating helps older adults:

• Obtain nutrients needed such as potassium, calcium, vitamins D and B12, minerals, and fiber.

• Manage chronic diseases or reduce the risk of developing high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, etc.

• Lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

• Meet individual calorie and nutrition needs and help to maintain energy levels.

CenterLight Healthcare PACE se compromete a proporcionar información precisa relacionada con la salud para ayudar a las personas a vivir bien, mantenerse sanas y tomar decisiones bien informadas sobre la atención sanitaria. La información contenida en este material es estrictamente educativa. Recomendamos a los usuarios que consulten con su proveedor médico acerca de su atención.

Fuentes:

• National Institutes of Health (www.nia.nih.gov)
• United States Department of Agriculture (www.choosemyplate.gov)

H3329 Blog_NoPOInfo_HealthyEating
Updated September 23, 2025