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Avoid the ‘slippery slope’ and instead age well, even improve and grow

Posted by randywhite @randywhite, Dec 28, 2025

Recently, I have observed a loved one becoming victim to the ‘slippery slope’. So I decided to search on ‘slippery slope’. What I found was both insightful and resonating with my observations of others and myself.
This may be helpful for folks that are seeking to age well and optimize their life experience.

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randywhite | @randywhite | Mar 8 10:01am
In reply to @sueinmn "@rollingf Unless they are a danger to themselves or others, I would tell them nothing, unless..." + (show)
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@rollingf Unless they are a danger to themselves or others, I would tell them nothing, unless I personally observed evidence of roaches, mice and other vermin, or pets defecating in the house. Then I would point out the health dangers of living in those conditions. How others choose to live may be distasteful to us, but it is really their choice.

On the other hand, if a person who hoards is endangering a vulnerable partner, parent or children, I would offer to help them find someone to deal with the mess. If no action is taken, I would report them to the authorities. My disabled cousin had to be rescued from just such a situation by her children.

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@sueinmn Presuming the couple is aged; ‘barely walk’ connotes trip n fall hazards. So they have endangered themselves.
I’d attempt influence via asking questions about their purpose in excess collections of stuff. Socratic and curious in the style of your inquiry, may lead to revealing some insights.
Pointing out the endangerment may only provoke defensiveness. Which could deepen their obsessions.
Long ago Jesus was asked by a rich man ‘how can I enter the Kingdom of Heaven. The reply was; sell all you have and give away the money to the poor and follow me. Stuff and riches is not the route to wellness and peace.

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