MATERIALS AND METHODS
Overview of Study Design
As shown in Figure 2, COACH is a randomized controlled trial (RCT) with two arms: an intervention group (MINT-TLC) and active health education (HE) control group. Eligible seniors with uncontrolled HTN (BP ≥ 130/80 mmHg for those with diabetes or renal disease, or BP ≥ 135/85 mmHg for all others) are randomly assigned to either MINT-TLC or HE. Seniors randomized to the MINT-TLC group receive 12 weekly group classes [targeted at healthy lifestyle changes, medication adherence and stress management]; followed by individual motivational interviewing (MINT) sessions (monthly for three months and then bimonthly for 6 months). MINT-TLC is designed to help participants adopt healthy lifestyle behaviors and develop skills to maintain these behaviors long-term. Seniors in the HE group receive a single 30-minute individual counseling session on healthy lifestyle changes and print versions of standard hypertension education material. Assessments of primary and secondary outcomes are conducted at Baseline, 3 months (Visit 1), 6 months (Visit 2), 9 months (Visit 3) and 12 months (Visit 4). Study visits range in duration from 20 minutes (Visit 1, Visit 3) to 45 minutes (Baseline, Visit 2, Visit 4).