Memory Care in New Mexico | MemoryCare.com

Memory Care in New Mexico

Alzheimer’s disease is a growing concern in New Mexico. According to the Alzheimer's Association, 43,000 New Mexico residents aged 65 and over lived with this condition in 2020. By 2025, the estimated number of seniors living with Alzheimer’s is expected to increase by over 23% to 53,000 cases. In 2019, there were 568 Alzheimer’s-related deaths in the state, and 15% of individuals in hospice had a primary diagnosis of dementia. The CDC projects that within the next four decades, the national burden of Alzheimer’s will double.

Memory care facilities provide those living with Alzheimer’s and dementia with care that is tailored to their unique needs. Memory care can take place in its own facility, or as part of a designated wing of another residential care community. Staff members of memory care units or facilities undergo specialized training in caring for those with memory impairment, and the facilities often coordinate social activities and schedules specifically for the needs of those living with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

This guide will cover the cost of memory care in New Mexico, financial assistance options for paying for memory care, free memory care resources in the state, and a directory of memory care facilities in New Mexico.

The Cost of Memory Care in New Mexico

When figuring out how to pay for memory care, you first need to understand how much it will cost for your loved one to move to a quality community. As costs continue to rise, it's vital to have the latest details when planning for elderly care costs. In order to shed light on the impact of inflation on senior living costs, MemoryCare.com has gathered cost information from its network of over 75,000 senior living communities. These prices are based on the cost of Memory Care in New Mexico and 3 other cities in New Mexico.

How Inflation Has Impacted the Cost of Memory Care in New Mexico

Inflation has caused many expenses to increase, including senior care. In New Mexico, memory care costs across the state saw a 5.5% increase between 2022 and 2023. Fortunately, it's lower than the 10.5% increase observed on a national level. Many neighboring states also saw a greater impact, with rates rising 15% in Arizona and 12% in Colorado. 

Another bump in costs is expected in 2024. Rates in New Mexico are projected to hit $5,553, while rates in Arizona and Colorado are estimated to reach $6,209 and $6,382, respectively. This emphasizes the importance of planning ahead for senior care.

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
New Mexico$4,943$5,214$5,553
U.S. Average$4,863$5,369$5,792
Arizona$4,698$5,401$6,209
Utah$4,595$4,425$4,997
Colorado$5,326$5,958$6,382
Texas$3,607$3,763$3,836

Memory Care Costs in New Mexico's Top Cities

Memory care costs can vary across different cities in New Mexico. Among them, Santa Fe has very affordable rates at $4,739. Costs in Rio Ranch also fall below the state median, averaging $4,835 per month. Meanwhile, Albuquerque, the state's largest city, sees a slightly higher average rate of $5,488. Interestingly, Tucson, AZ, a neighboring city, offers memory care at a lower cost of $4,181, making it a potential alternative for cost-conscious individuals seeking dementia care.

The Cost of Other Types of Senior Living

The cost of various senior care options shows distinct differences. Independent living is the most cost-effective at $2,961, catering to self-sufficient seniors. Memory care is priced higher at $5,214 due to the specialized care it offers for seniors with cognitive issues. For $4,185, assisted living provides a mid-range option, offering support while allowing some independence. Factors such as personalized programming and the level of assistance provided contribute to these variations in senior living costs.

New Mexico Medicaid Programs for Memory Care

In New Mexico, memory care services are covered by Centennial Care, the state’s Medicaid 1115 waiver and managed care demonstration program. New Mexico’s Medicaid program offers multiple pathways towards Medicaid eligibility and covers a variety of services that are provided in home and community-based settings, including memory care facilities.

  • Who Is Eligible: Centennial Care is available to residents of the state of New Mexico. They must also be a U.S. national, citizen, permanent resident or legal alien, have a need for health care/insurance assistance and have a financial situation that would be characterized as low or very low income.
  • How To Apply: You can learn more about Medicaid and other available benefits by contacting the state’s Aging and Disability Resource Center at (800) 432-2080 or the Human Services Department at (800) 283-4465.

Centennial Care

New Mexico's Medicaid managed care program is called Centennial Care, and memory care services are delivered via the Community Benefit. This program provides long-term care services for seniors in residential settings. It has a self-directed care option in which participants can choose their own care providers. In some cases, this could include eligible family members. While the program doesn’t directly pay for assisted living with memory care, it covers some specialized services received in an assisted living setting, including adult day health care, respite care, personal care assistance, private duty nursing and personal emergency response systems.

  • Who Is Eligible: To be eligible for the Community Benefit, applicants must be qualified to receive services under Centennial Care. Generally speaking, an applicant must be a U.S. citizen, national, legal alien or permanent resident, and they must be a permanent resident of New Mexico. As of 2020, the annual income limit is $30,276 for a single applicant and $60,552 for a two-person household.
  • How To Apply: Those who are interested in enrolling in the Community Benefit should apply online through the Centennial Care website or contact the state’s Human Services Department at (800) 283-4465. Alternatively, qualifying seniors may receive in-person assistance and submit an application at their nearest NM Human Services Department field office. There are a limited number of Community Benefit placements in New Mexico.

Medicaid Eligibility for Seniors in New Mexico 

Any income that an applicant receives is counted towards Medicaid’s income limit. This means income from any source, including employment wages, alimony payments, pension payments, Social Security Disability Insurance, Social Security retirement benefits, IRA withdrawals and stock dividends.

2022 Medicaid Income Limits for Seniors in New Mexico

family sizeannual income limitsasset limits
Single Person$30,276$2,000
Two-Person Household (Single Applicant)$30,276$2,000 for applicant $137,400 for non-applicant
Two-Person Household (Dual Applicants)$60,552$4,000

Other eligibility requirements include:

  • Residency in the state of New Mexico
  • U.S. national, citizen, permanent resident or legal alien status
  • Need for health care/insurance assistance
  • Financial situation characterized as low income

How To Get Help Applying for Medicaid in New Mexico

New Mexico has online and in-person tools available to help seniors who are applying for Medicaid. These include call centers, chat lines, in-person counseling and other resources.

resourcecontactdescription
New Mexico Human Services DepartmentOnlineThe state of New Mexico Human Services Department's online page for Centennial Care provides detailed information about the program, including resources about how to get personalized assistance.
New Mexico Medicaid PortalTo check on existing benefits, request help or ask questions about enrollment, New Mexico has a Medicaid portal with links and a live chat feature for seniors and their caregivers.
Paying For Senior Care855-481-6777This service offers free advice from a senior care expert about long-term care options, including memory care, Medicaid and financial assistance.
American Council on Aging Medicaid PlannersOnlineFor help navigating the complicated Medicaid application process in New Mexico, the ACA offers free planning tools and access to Medicaid specialists. Although the initial referral is free, most certified Medicaid planners charge for their services.

Can You Use Medicare To Pay for Memory Care in New Mexico?

Unfortunately, Medicare does not generally cover the cost of Memory Care. Most Memory Care Facilities are considered to be "social settings," so Medicare does not cover the cost incurred in these facilities. The only exception to that is if you are receiving memory care services in a Nursing Home. While this situation is much less common, Medicare would sometimes cover the cost, depending on a number of circumstances.

That being said, Medicare does still cover qualified doctor visits, medications, etc., as it would if you were still at home, but it will not cover the cost of care received at the Memory Care Facility.

More Ways To Pay for Memory Care in New Mexico

In addition to the state programs mentioned above, those looking for resources to finance memory care may consider:

  • Long-Term Care Insurance: Depending on the policy details, long-term care insurance may be used to pay for memory care services. It's best to sign up for a policy early, as coverage will likely be denied if one already has long-term care needs. More information about the intricacies of long-term care insurance can be found at longtermcare.acl.gov.
  • Reverse Mortgages: Reverse mortgages allow some homeowners to take out a loan as an advance from the eventual sale of their primary residence. This can be a good way to fund memory care in the short-term, but the loans will need to be paid back after the sale of the home. The most commonly used type of reverse mortgages for seniors is the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage, which is the only reverse mortgage insured by the federal government.
  • Veterans Benefits: The Department of Veterans Affairs offers several programs that veterans and their spouses may use to cover health care needs such as memory care. More information about these programs can be found on the VA website.
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Memory Care Laws and Regulations in New Mexico

Memory Care Regulation

In New Mexico, memory care is provided in assisted living facilities for adults. These facilities are licensed and regulated by the New Mexico Department of Health.

In addition to the standard requirements that are met by all assisted living facilities in the state, those that offer memory care services must meet additional conditions. These include requirements relating to care coordination, staffing, training individualized service plans, assessments and re-evaluations, documentation, security and resident rights.

Facility Scope of Care

Memory care facilities in New Mexico are required to provide supervision and assistance to residents as necessary with specified nursing services, including:

  • Medication administration or supervising self-administration
  • Activities of daily living
  • Recreational and social activities
  • Laundry and housekeeping
  • Transportation
  • Around-the-clock comprehensive nursing services are not provided.

Memory care facilities are required to provide three nutritionally balanced meals and evening snacks that are in keeping with recommended daily dietary guidelines.

Admissions Requirements

Prior to admitting a prospective resident with dementia, the assisted living facility must conduct a pre-admission assessment to determine whether the secured environment is needed or if a less restrictive alternative is appropriate. Memory care facilities in New Mexico can accommodate a wide range of residents, but there are some restrictions in place as well. This table outlines who may and may not be admitted or retained.

Residents Who May Be Admitted

Older adults and people who:

  • Have Alzheimer’s disease or dementia
  • Have traumatic brain injuries
  • Have developmental or physical disabilities
  • Are receiving hospice care

Residents Who May NOT Be Admitted

Those who:

  • Require 24-hour continuous nursing care
  • Are ventilator dependent
  • Have Stage III or IV pressure sores
  • Require physical or chemical restraints
  • Require intravenous therapy or injections

Care Plan Requirements

Memory care facilities must provide individualized service plans for prospective residents prior to admission to ensure that the facility is equipped to meet their needs. The service plan must provide an outline of the services that will be provided, including when, how and by whom. Residents must be reassessed every six months or after a significant change in their health or abilities.

Residents may contract with third-party agencies, including hospice agencies. The memory care facility must coordinate care provided within the building by these third-party agencies.

Medication Management Requirements

Residents may self-administer their medication with the approval of their physician. If they don’t have physician approval, then they can self-administer medications with the assistance of a facility staff member who has successfully completed a state-approved program in medication administration assistance. Medications may only be administered by a relative of the resident, a physician, a physician extender or a licensed nurse.

Staff members who assist with medication self-administration are responsible for understanding the potential interactions and side effects that may occur with a given medication. Memory care facilities must have a consulting pharmacist on staff who reviews medication lists on a quarterly basis to ensure that records and orders are accurate. The pharmacist must also ensure that the facility is properly storing, labeling, documenting and disposing of medications in accordance with the requirements of the state’s Board of Pharmacy.

Facility Requirements

In New Mexico, apartment-style units in assisted living facilities, including those that offer memory care, are not required. Units may be single or double occupancy. Single occupancy units must be at least 100 square feet, and double occupancy units must have at least 80 square feet per resident, excluding storage space. At least one toilet, sink and bath or shower must be provided for every eight residents.

Memory care facilities must have a secured environment to prevent residents from wandering. This is described by the state as any locked area with fences or doors that restrict access through the use of alarms. Facilities must also have secured outdoor areas for residents to use throughout the year.

Staffing Requirements

New Mexico provides specific guidelines regarding staffing requirements and ratios to ensure that residents receive adequate care. All memory care facilities must have an administrator who is responsible for daily operations. They must also have a sufficient number of direct care staff who are specially trained to meet residents’ needs, and at least one staff member must be awake at all times. The facility must have a licensed nurse who provides medication administration and a licensed nurse or physician extender who reviews health evaluations and ISPs.

Direct care staff must complete 16 hours of supervised training before providing unsupervised care, along with 12 hours of training annually. This training includes fire safety, first aid, resident rights and confidentiality, reporting requirements for abuse, infection control and transportation safety. They must also have at least 12 hours of annual dementia-related training.

Medicaid Policy

In New Mexico, memory care services are covered by Centennial Care, the state’s Medicaid 1115 waiver managed care demonstration program.

Reporting Abuse

Family members, seniors and the general public have two avenues for reporting suspected or observed abuse, exploitation or neglect. They may call the toll-free Health Facility Complaints hotline at 1-800-752-8649. Alternatively, they may print a Health Facility Consumer Complaint Form and fax or mail it to the provided number or address.

Health facilities are required to report all incidents of abuse, neglect, exploitation, injuries of unknown origin or cases of death where abuse or neglect is suspected. Reports are to be made through the state’s Health Facility Reporting System.

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Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in New Mexico

In New Mexico, there is an abundance of resources designed to assist seniors throughout their retirement. MemoryCare.com has compiled information on a range of local organizations, programs, and agencies, categorizing them based on the care services they offer for easy browsing.

Area Agency on Aging

The Area Agency on Aging in New Mexico is a crucial asset for retired individuals, providing advice on financial assistance, home-based care, and planning for extended care. It also connects seniors and their caregivers with local resources.

program-namephone-numberdescription
New Mexico Area Agencies on AgingNew Mexico has four Area Agencies on Aging (AAA), with two in Albuquerque, one in Santa Fe, and the fourth in Window Rock, AZ. Tribal programs require a minimum age of 55 for services, while other areas have a minimum age of 60. Seniors can access various services, such as respite care, transportation, meals, legal assistance, and adult day care.

Cash Assistance Programs

Financial assistance initiatives exist in New Mexico to help seniors with low income sustain their home living. These initiatives provide tax reductions, discounts on crucial services, and aid for home temperature regulation costs.

program-namephone-numberdescription
New Mexico Lifeline Program800-234-9473The LifeLine Program offers discounted telephone service, enabling participants to stay connected with their loved ones through landline or mobile phones.

Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living

Elderly individuals in New Mexico, living independently or in elderly care homes, can avail of numerous local financial support opportunities. These aid options help reduce in-home or long-term care costs and connect them to valuable community resources.

program-namephone-numberdescription
New Mexico Community Benefit Program800-432-2080The program assists seniors in preserving their autonomy at home, instead of moving to nursing homes or other facilities. Covered services include support with daily tasks, home modifications for improved accessibility, personal emergency response systems, and physical therapy.

Food Assistance Programs

In New Mexico, numerous community programs focus on enhancing the health of seniors via proper diet. These initiatives provide meal delivery, shared meals, and food bank services, guaranteeing that older citizens can obtain reasonably priced, healthy food.

program-namephone-numberdescription
New Mexico Home Delivered Meals800-432-2080Home Delivered Meals are a convenient solution for individuals who cannot cook and lack a caregiver. These meals are delivered to their homes, ensuring they receive the necessary nutrition.
New Mexico Meals on Wheels505-823-8060Meals on Wheels of Albuquerque, a 501(c)3 nonprofit founded in 1972, was established by a group of women from Presbyterian Churches in Albuquerque. With 20 clients and 40 volunteers at the start, we now serve approximately 500 clients with the assistance of over 400 volunteers. Our mission is to provide nourishing meals and essential social interaction, promoting the overall well-being of those we serve.

Free Used Medical Equipment

In New Mexico, several organizations are tackling the high cost of new medical devices. They collect lightly used equipment such as wheelchairs, ramps, and walkers, distributing them to local elderly and those requiring assistance.

program-namephone-numberdescription
New Mexico Adelante Back In Use505-341-7171Back in Use is a non-profit organization that repurposes medical equipment and assistive devices, offering affordable options for New Mexicans in need. Donated items are carefully inspected and sanitized before being distributed to individuals with limited financial resources.
New Mexico Technology Assistance Program877-696-1470The New Mexico Technology Assistance Program provides a variety of assistive technology and medical equipment to residents, especially seniors. These devices, such as wheelchair cushions and telephone amplifiers, enhance daily living. With a six-week loan period for most items, the program assists seniors in selecting and utilizing the appropriate technology. NMTAP also offers training on device usage and maintenance, empowering seniors and their families to overcome technological challenges and enhance their quality of life.

Health Insurance & Prescription Drug Coverage for Seniors

Elderly residents of New Mexico with certain income brackets have access to local aid for prescription medication expenses. They might also be eligible for health coverage and other programs providing complimentary or reduced-cost healthcare services.

program-namephone-numberdescription
New Mexico Drug Card800-726-4232The New Mexico Drug Card provides pharmacy discounts to reduce out-of-pocket costs for prescriptions. It is especially beneficial for medications not covered by Medicare Part D or other insurance plans. The card can also be used when the cost without insurance is lower than with coverage.

Home Repair and Modifications

In New Mexico, a variety of programs exist to support seniors and those with disabilities in funding home improvements and repairs. These initiatives, providing grants or loans, feature different eligibility criteria tailored for retired individuals.

program-namephone-numberdescription
New Mexico Energy$mart Weatherization ProgramThe Energy$mart Weatherization Program in New Mexico provides funding for energy efficiency improvements and home safety enhancements. Participants receive home energy audits to determine eligible services.

Social Security Offices

In New Mexico, Social Security offices are crucial resources for the elderly and those with disabilities. They provide advice on retirement perks, disability benefits, and additional security income.

program-namephone-numberdescription
New Mexico Social SecuritySocial Security offers financial support to retirees and those unable to work due to disability. It is funded through payroll taxes paid by employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Monthly payments during retirement are based on past earnings.

Tax Assistance

In New Mexico, a variety of tax assistance options exist for seniors and people with disabilities. These encompass possible medical cost exemptions, property tax cuts, and other tax alleviation measures.

program-namephone-numberdescription
New Mexico Senior Property Tax Rebate505-372-8314Seniors in New Mexico can receive a property tax rebate based on their county of residence. The county assessor offices determine the amount of the rebate, which helps lower the annual property tax for seniors in the state.

Utility & Energy Bill Assistance

In New Mexico, there are establishments ready to assist seniors with limited income facing challenges with home upkeep expenses, such as energy and utility bills. Emergency financial support might be available for individuals threatened with utility disconnection due to outstanding payments.

program-namephone-numberdescription
New Mexico Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)800-283-4465The New Mexico Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, managed by the state's Human Services Department, provides financial assistance to low-income seniors struggling with energy costs. Eligible applicants must be New Mexico residents with incomes below specified guidelines for their household size. LIHEAP offers support during energy crises, ensuring seniors can afford their utilities.

Veteran's Services

In New Mexico, retired military personnel can find essential support through local veteran services. These organizations help veterans access their deserved benefits and offer advice on a variety of issues.

program-namephone-numberdescription
New Mexico VA Benefits and Health CareNew Mexico VA Benefits and Health Care offers health administration and benefits delivery to eligible veterans in the state. The Regional Benefits Office and the main VA Health Care System office are located in Albuquerque, with additional outpatient clinics throughout New Mexico. Senior veterans can contact these locations for help with applying for health care and financial aid benefits.

New Mexico COVID-19 Rules for Memory Care Facilities

Note: The following information was compiled and most recently updated on 2/10/2022. Since COVID-19 is a rapidly evolving crisis, be sure to contact your Memory Care Facility or local Area Agency on Aging for the most up-to-date information.

questionanswer
Am I allowed to visit my loved one in person?Yes (Conditions Apply)
Is my loved one required to quarantine after I visit him or her?No
Am I required to wear a mask if I visit my loved one in person?Yes
Are visitors screened for elevated temperatures?Yes
Are residents allowed to leave the facility at-will?Yes
Are residents of senior living facilities who leave required to quarantine when they get back?No (Conditions Apply)
Are staff members and contractors checked for elevated temperatures?Yes
Are staff members and contractors tested for COVID-19?Yes (Conditions Apply)
Do staff members have to regularly screen residents for COVID-19 symptoms?Yes
Do staff members have to regularly check residents for elevated temperatures?Yes
Do staff members have to regularly test residents for COVID-19?Yes (Conditions Apply)
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