Motivational interviewing techniques and a self-managed care
approach were integrated into all discussions with participants
to support behaviour change. Group training in motivational
interviewing and self-managed care had been previously provided
by the regional stroke program. At their first study visit
with the NCM, participants were provided with a memory cue
in the formof a weeklymedication dosette if they were not previously
using one. Additional individualized memory cues were
collaboratively identified by the NCM, participants and family
members/supportive others that would assist in takingmedications
at the prescribed times, for example, at meal times or at
time of brushing teeth in the morning. Participants were also
instructed in how to self-monitor blood pressure using either
personal machines or equipment available at their local pharmacy.
Where other resources were not available, automatic
blood pressure machines were loaned to participants for the
duration of the study.