SANTA FE – This week, the New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) will present its budget priorities before the House Appropriations and Finance Committee and the Senate Finance Committee.  

“New Mexico seniors and adults deserve the highest quality of care and support,” said Emily Kaltenbach, ALTSD Cabinet Secretary Designate. “This budget reaffirms our commitment to older and disabled adults, as well as their caregivers, by ensuring they have access to the resources they need to live with dignity and independence.” 

ALTSD’s budget within the executive recommendation includes several strategic investments aimed at meeting the growing needs of New Mexico’s aging population. These key priorities include: 

• Expanding direct services through the aging network: Increasing participation and attendance at senior centers, including a targeted investment for the support of tribal elders. 
• Re-activating and expanding long-term care: Bolstering agency capacity to align long-term care programs that support caregivers, veterans, older adults with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and individuals transitioning from a long-term care facility back to their home and community.  
• Enhancing consumer & elder rights services: Hiring additional staff to support the direct consumer services, including long-term care ombudsman, and dedicating additional dollars to improving the Aging & Disability Resource Center call center. 

ALTSD’s hearing with the House Appropriations & Finance Committee is Feb. 6, at 2:30 p.m. and the Senate Finance Committee hearing is Feb. 7, at 9 a.m.