When Catholic Healthcare client Amihan’s daughter, Ligaya, moved into the three-bedroom family home to become her mother’s primary carer, she had to reduce her belongings to fit into a single room. She would share the home with her mother and two aunts.
The Western Sydney home was already crowded, with years of accumulated possessions filling the bedrooms, living areas and garage. 81-year-old Amihan shared a bedroom with her sister, 75-year-old Benilda, whose belongings were piled high, making the room difficult to use and preventing an existing mould issue from being treated. Another sister shopped compulsively online, and boxes, bags and suitcases had begun to take over the living room.
With the client preparing for hip replacement surgery, creating enough space for her to move safely around the home had become urgent. She was already using crutches and would need a four-wheel walker after surgery.
Without these changes, the cluttered environment could impede her recovery and put her independence at risk.
That was when a Catholic Healthcare Care Advisor Louise Corbin stepped in to assist. Because of the family’s complex history, which included past trauma, the offer of support was initially met with resistance. Over four visits, Louise worked compassionately with the family, ensuring each person was consulted and had an opportunity to share their concerns and priorities.
Once trust had been established, Catholic Healthcare engaged Joe, a specialist broker who understood and respected the household’s unique dynamics. Across several sessions, Joe worked alongside the family to make practical changes while ensuring every family member was heard.
As the family prepared for Amihan’s safe return from hospital, they began working together as a supportive unit. One sister even offered to give up wardrobe space so Amihan would have what she needed after surgery.
‘The family came together and made concessions to ensure their mother could return home safely after surgery. In the process, they learned new ways to communicate, collaborate and support one another.’ Louise Corbin, Care Advisor.
Understanding hoarding and how Catholic Healthcare can help
While many people live with some clutter, hoarding disorder is a psychological health condition in which possessions can take over the home, prevent rooms from being used as intended, creating unsafe and unsanitary living conditions. Catholic Healthcare has many years of experience supporting people affected by hoarding and squalor across NSW. Assistance is available through programs such as the statewide Buried in Treasures online program, the Hoarding and Squalor Program (Assistance with Care and Housing), the online Declutter Group and one-on-one psychosocial support.
For more information on the support we provide, please visit Hoarding and Squalor Support Services or call our friendly Customer Care team on 1800 225 474.
*Names of client and family have been changed to protect their privacy.