Chronic Disease Self-Management Education CDSME State Grants - Partnering with six Senior Nutrition Programs (SNPs) across Texas, the Public Policy Research Institute at Texas A&M University proposes VITAL STEPS-Vital Interventions for Thriving Aging Lives through Self-Management, Training, Education, Prevention, and Support-to advance whole-person wellness for older adults with depression and anxiety, many also managing chronic conditions such as hypertension, in high-need communities: Dallas, El Paso, the Panhandle, Brownwood, San Antonio, and Hidalgo. Depression and anxiety affect over one in four older adults, with hypertension as most common co-occurring conditions. VITAL STEPS will implement three ACL-approved, evidence-based programs-¡S!, Yo Puedo!, Health Coaches for Hypertension Control, and Walk With Ease-proven to improve self-management, enhance mobility, and reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and hypertension. Over three years, the project will serve 1,200 unduplicated participants and 906 completers. Enrollments will total 480 in Si Yo Puedo!, 360 in Health Coaches, and 360 in Walk With Ease. Adherence targets are 25% of total enrollments by end of Year 1, 50% by end of Year 2, and 100% by end of Year 3. Along with the six SNPs, statewide behavioral health partners include Texas HHSC, Association of Regional Councils, Area Agencies on Aging, Texas A&M AgriLife, WellMed Medical Group, local health providers and disability networks. Their robust experience serving seniors with behavioral health conditions will support culturally relevant, multiprong outreach strategies reflecting Texas's unique landscape. Using a person-centered approach, VITAL STEPS integrates training, bi-directional referrals, technology support, and volunteer engagement. A statewide Learning Collaborative and tailored resources will foster knowledge-sharing, strengthen community capacity, and ensure sustainable chronic disease self-management supports for older adults across Texas.
