Aging Secretary Emily Kaltenbach

ALTSD News:

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) is requesting $8.2 million in general funds, representing an 11 percent general fund increase from the previous year.

“New Mexico’s older adults need a strong, responsive support network,” Aging Secretary Emily Kaltenbach. “Each year, we see more aging seniors aging in need — this budget strengthens frontline services families rely on, invests in protection for our most vulnerable, and positions us to be prepared for the future.”

The FY27 budget request focuses on the following priorities:

• $1.5 million to fund 10-13 additional Adult Protective Services (APS) workers, expanding the APS workforce and capacity statewide.
• $5.5 million to bolster community-based aging programs like transportation, meals respite care, health promotion services and the Senior Employment Program in both urban and rural communities.
• $1 million to support the 48th Annual Conference on Aging, the state’s largest gathering of aging professionals, caregivers and advocates. An additional $1 million to expand statewide outreach and public education efforts, helping more New Mexicans connect with available programs and supports.
• $1.2 million for fixed cost increases in agency operations like vehicle leases and healthcare costs for staff.
• $600,000 to enhance emergency readiness, disaster response planning, and rapid coordination with providers during public health emergencies, disasters, or unexpected service disruptions.

For more information about ALTSD programs and services, visit aging.nm.gov.

About ALTSD:

The New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) was established in 2004 to provide resources, connection and advocacy 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 or follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram@NewMexicoAging.