New Mexico Aging Services October Newsletter
New Mexico Aging Services October Newsletter
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RESIDENTS’ RIGHTS MONTH
LETTER FROM THE SECRETARY
Advocacy is at the heart of everything we do at the Aging and Long-Term Services Department. Whether we are working to secure funding that allows us to serve more New Mexicans or helping someone connect to resources within their community, our mission is clear: we strive to ensure that every older adult and every person living with a disability is treated with dignity, respect and compassion.
October is Residents’ Rights Month, which reminds us that the voices of people living in long-term care facilities must always be heard. Our Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program plays a critical role in protecting those rights. The Ombudsmen serve as advocates and trusted allies for residents in facilities. Ombudsmen listen, investigate concerns, and help resolve issues like food quality and access to medical care.
If you are looking for a way to make a direct difference, I encourage you to consider joining us as a volunteer Ombudsman. When you serve as an Ombudsman, you offer long-term care residents the voice they need at times when they need it most. You can join other dedicated, caring individuals in a shared quest to provide safety, respect, and quality of life to those living in facilities.
This is also the time of year where we start to look ahead to the 2026 legislative session. ALTSD will continue to be a strong voice at the Roundhouse for the programs and funding that matters most to New Mexico’s older and disabled adults. I encourage you to be advocates for us, and to use your voice to contact your legislators and share your stories about how ALTSD services and programs make a difference in your life.
In the months ahead, we will share more details about our budget priorities and how they support our mission. Thank you for being partners with us in ensuring that everyone in New Mexico has access to the supports and services they rely on. Warmly,
Cabinet Secretary New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department
RESIDENTS’ RIGHTS MONTH
Each October, Residents' Rights Month serves as a powerful reminder of the dignity, autonomy, and value of older adults living in long-term care communities.
Older adults are often at risk of being overlooked in a fast-paced society that prizes youth and speed. Yet, they carry with them deep reservoirs of wisdom, history, and experience. Residents' Rights Month calls on us to ensure that these individuals are not only cared for, but heard, respected, and empowered.
Take this month as an opportunity to connect. Visit a local care facility, volunteer your time, or simply sit and listen to an elder’s story. Educate yourself and others about residents' rights and speak up if you witness those rights being ignored.…