ALTSD News:
SANTA FE – The New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) has launched a novel caregiver health model called “New MexiCare” this October. The program is designed to provide supportive services to participants and their caregivers.
New MexiCare provides financial support to individuals and their caregivers who do not otherwise qualify for a paid caregiver through Medicare or Medicaid. Qualified participants will be provided with a stipend of up to $12,000, per fiscal year, for their existing caregiver, respite or day care, transportation, and safety monitoring. Each participant will be given an individualized service plan with a community engagement specialist to best meet their needs.
This program will be available in Harding, Catron, Sierra, Lincoln, San Miguel and De Baca counties initially, with hopes to expand to other counties as the program matures.
“Gov. Lujan Grisham envisioned a new program to help older New Mexicans and their caregivers, so they can thrive in their homes and communities of choice,” Secretary Designate Jen Paul Schroer said. “By providing a stipend to aid in caregiving, we also aim to reduce nursing home placements and emergency department visits, thereby lessening the strain on our hospitals and other care systems. Elevating the level of care and filling gaps in the system are priorities of the Governor, and New MexiCare is one of many initiatives of this administration delivering on that promise.”
“This is an exciting time for our aging adults and their caregivers, whether it’s a family member, friend or neighbor,” New MexiCare Director Esperanza Lucero said. “We know that many New Mexicans are already providing support for their loved ones, often at great personal sacrifice. Through the implementation of this new program, we hope to provide some extra support so our older adults can thrive in their homes and stay in their communities of choice.”
The application process is now open.
To be eligible, residents must meet the following criteria:
- Age 60+;
- Be a United States Citizen;
- Have cognitive or physical limitations requiring assistance with two or more activities of daily living such as: feeding, dressing, personal hygiene, incontinence, toileting, and/or ambulating (walking);
- Cannot be eligible for Medicaid;
- Maximum Net Income Level $3,300/month for an individual $6,600/month for a couple;
- Maximum Financial Holding $19,800 (total for savings plus checking accounts) for individuals and $39,600 for couples; and
- Must live in one of the following New Mexico counties: Harding, Catron, Sierra, Lincon, San Miguel, De Baca.
New Mexicans who wish to learn more or apply for the program may apply online at NewMexicare.org or by contacting the New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department at 1.866.654.3219 and select Option #4.
The New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) was established in 2004 to provide advocacy, support, and resources for seniors and adults with disabilities. The department oversees the state’s Area Agencies on Aging to elevate the quality of care at senior centers, offers advocacy through the Long-Term Care Ombudsman volunteer program, and provides intervention through the agency’s national award-winning Adult Protective Services. Additionally, ALTSD houses the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Center, which offers options counseling, education, and connection to resources. For more information about ALTSD, visit aging.nm.gov.
