Helping older adults with hoarding disorder change their behavior

Motivational Interviewing to Enhance Behavioral Change in Older Adults with Hoarding Disorder

NIH-funded research Mississippi State University · NIH-10436587

This study is looking at how to help older adults with hoarding disorder by using a friendly conversation technique that encourages them to discover their own reasons for wanting to change, making it easier for them to safely sort and get rid of clutter in their homes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR15 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMississippi State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Mississippi State, United States)
Project IDNIH-10436587 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on older adults suffering from hoarding disorder, a condition that can lead to dangerous living situations due to excessive clutter. The study aims to enhance behavioral change through motivational interviewing, a technique that encourages individuals to find their own reasons for change. By addressing the unique cognitive and behavioral challenges faced by older adults, the research seeks to improve their ability to sort and discard items safely. The approach is designed to be more effective than traditional methods that may not resonate with this age group.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who struggle with hoarding disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have hoarding disorder or are younger than 65 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer living environments and improved quality of life for older adults with hoarding disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that motivational interviewing can effectively enhance behavioral change in older adults for various health conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach in treating hoarding disorder.

Where this research is happening

Mississippi State, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.