New Mexico Aging Services February Newsletter
New Mexico Aging Services February Newsletter
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CELEBRATING HEART HEALTH
LETTER FROM THE SECRETARY
February is heart health month, and a reminder that what keeps our hearts strong is more than medical care. Heart health is also about connection, access to nutritious food, reliable transportation, safe housing, and the community-based supports that help us live healthy, independent lives. When our communities are strong, our hearts are stronger, too. February also finds us in the midst of the legislative session, a time where we put those values into action. Advocating for policies and investments that support our neighbors is one way we can improve the heart health of our great state. This year, our budget priorities focus on sustaining and strengthening the aging network, expanding access to home- and community-based services, caregiver assistance, and modernizing aging services to meet rising demand. These investments are critical to ensuring that seniors can age with dignity, independence, and choice—while supporting the caregivers and providers who make this work possible. We are deeply grateful to the older adults, advocates, providers, and partners who raise their voices during the legislative session and help lawmakers understand what it truly means to serve more seniors. Your stories and advocacy help shape policies that reduce isolation, strengthen wellbeing, and support heart health across New Mexico. As we recognize Heart Health Month, I encourage everyone to take a moment to check in on a neighbor, reach out to a loved one, or learn more about the services available in your community. Research consistently shows that social isolation and loneliness are linked to higher risks of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic conditions. Staying connected through community activities, like volunteering, can help support your physical and emotional health and wellbeing. I invite you to check out the volunteer opportunities we have here at ALTSD. Visit our website at aging.nm.gov/about-altsd/volunteer-2/ to see what programs might be a good fit for you. Together, by caring for our hearts, our neighbors, and investing in strong fiscal supports, we can continue building a New Mexico where everyone can age safely, healthfully, and with dignity. Warmly
Cabinet Secretary New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department
CELEBRATING HEART HEALTH
February’s focus on heart health is a reminder that staying heart healthy is not just about nutrition, but also about staying active, connected, and engaged. Across New Mexico, senior centers provide hubs for connection, wellness, and support that help older adults care for their hearts in more ways than one. This February, visit your local senior center to learn more about programs and activities…