Health
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Is Diogenes Syndrome?

Carol Kindle
Carol Kindle

Diogenes syndrome is an unusual behavioral disorder in which patients exhibit symptoms of self-neglect, poor housekeeping, and compulsive hoarding. These symptoms can appear in elderly people who live alone or in those who have experienced a traumatic event. Patients may have symptoms of dementia, but often these patients are mentally competent. Self-neglect and poor hygiene may lead to malnutrition and other physical health problems.

This disorder was originally named after the eccentric Greek philosopher Diogenes of Sinope, who was known for being an outcast and living in a marketplace. He did not believe in relying on others or material possessions. These traits have been described in case reports of patients with Diogenes syndrome; however, most patients have additional symptoms, such as compulsive hoarding, that Diogenes did not have. Diogenes syndrome is often referred to as senile squalor syndrome.

Patients with Diogenes syndrome exhibit symptoms of self-neglect.
Patients with Diogenes syndrome exhibit symptoms of self-neglect.

Many patients with Diogenes syndrome live alone, are reclusive, and have few friends. These elderly patients seem unconcerned with their own hygiene or with their unsanitary living conditions. They do not seek help for this condition, and it is often discovered by a relative or neighbor. Many of these patients are distrustful of others and may be uncooperative. They will often refuse treatment by healthcare workers and they will ask to be left alone.

People with Diogenes syndrome may find it difficult to trust others.
People with Diogenes syndrome may find it difficult to trust others.

It is believed that this disorder is some form of personality disorder that may be triggered by a stressful event such as the loss of a spouse. Some patients may have additional symptoms such as dementia or schizophrenia, but many are very intelligent and aware of their situation. Scientists believe that patients with Diogenes syndrome may have some disturbance in the frontal lobe of the brain which controls decision making and concern for one's wellbeing.

Socialization of patients with Diogenes syndrome may be a treatment option.
Socialization of patients with Diogenes syndrome may be a treatment option.

Treatment of this disorder can be challenging. Often, patients are hospitalized for short periods of time for acute physical health issues. Upon recovery, these patients can be transferred to a nursing home, but most want to return to their homes. Cleaning of the home by professionals is often just a temporary solution, as conditions usually return to the original state.

Compulsive hoarding may be a symptom of diogenes syndrome.
Compulsive hoarding may be a symptom of diogenes syndrome.

These patients are usually suspicious of others, so healthcare workers or relatives must work to develop a trusting relationship with the patient. Aggressive treatment may make patients withdraw and become more reclusive. Treatment options also include medication to treat other symptoms, such as depression or obsessive compulsive disorder. Socialization of these patients in day care centers may also be a treatment option.

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Patients with Diogenes syndrome exhibit symptoms of self-neglect.
      By: absolut
      Patients with Diogenes syndrome exhibit symptoms of self-neglect.
    • People with Diogenes syndrome may find it difficult to trust others.
      By: Lisa F. Young
      People with Diogenes syndrome may find it difficult to trust others.
    • Socialization of patients with Diogenes syndrome may be a treatment option.
      By: Monkey Business
      Socialization of patients with Diogenes syndrome may be a treatment option.
    • Compulsive hoarding may be a symptom of diogenes syndrome.
      By: Joseph Helfenberger
      Compulsive hoarding may be a symptom of diogenes syndrome.
    • Diogenes syndrome was named for the eccentric Greek philosopher Diogenes, who was known for being an outcast.
      By: konstan
      Diogenes syndrome was named for the eccentric Greek philosopher Diogenes, who was known for being an outcast.
    • Many elderly people who live alone have Diogenes syndrome.
      By: imageegami
      Many elderly people who live alone have Diogenes syndrome.
    • Scientists believe that patients with Diogenes syndrome may have some disturbance in the frontal lobe of the brain.
      By: Alila Medical Media
      Scientists believe that patients with Diogenes syndrome may have some disturbance in the frontal lobe of the brain.