The Department of Senior Affairs, in collaboration with the Area Agency on Aging, provides many social service programs for frail and/or homebound elderly that enable them to continue living independently in their homes as long as feasible.

First Stop: Referrals must be obtained through the Department of Senior Affairs' Senior Information Line at 764-6400.

Social Services Programs

Care Coordination

Care Coordination provides a comprehensive in-home assessment to determine the needs of frail elders followed by linkage with appropriate services throughout the community. Care Coordinators arrange for in-home services such as home- delivered meals,  homemakers (non-medical homecare), in-home respite care, mental health counseling, and Senior Companions. Please call 764-6400.

Home Retrofit

Help is provided to income-eligible disabled persons of all ages in modifying their living space to accommodate special needs. Home Retrofit installs grab bars, wheelchair ramps, and safety rails, and other supportive equipment. Step modification and other minor remodeling are also possible to enhance self-sufficiency. Donations are requested. Please call 764-6400.

Home Repairs

For homeowners aged 60 and older, non-licensed work is provided for such services as replacing windows, fixing minor plumbing problems, and installing door locks.   Donations are requested. Please call 764-6400.

Home Chores

For homeowners aged 60 and older, annual yard work, painting and other needed chores are provided. Donations are requested. Please call 764-6400.

Area Agency on Aging Contract Programs

Visit the Area Agency on Aging online at www.nmaging.state.nm.us

Senior Citizens' Law Office (SCLO)

The Senior Citizens' Law Office provides free legal services to Bernalillo County elderly aged 60+ in civil (non-criminal) cases. Services are targeted to older persons with the greatest economic and social needs and are provided by appointment. Legal clinics are held at some senior centers. Donations are requested. Please call 265-2300.

ASSESSMENT/Screening Medication Management

The UNM College of Nursing offers a variety of health care services to Bernalillo County seniors aged 55+ at clinics held in four senior centers. The program assists seniors in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and independence. Nominal fees are charged for foot care and fitness physicals. Clinics are closed between semesters. Please see the Activities Catalog for a schedule of visits.

Mental Health Counseling (Professional/Peer)

Mental health professionals provide mental health counseling for homebound elderly who don't have access to mental health services. Peer counseling by trained and supervised seniors is also available to persons needing support for depression or life adjustment problems. Care Coordinators from the Department of Senior Affairs conduct eligibility assessments. Please call 764-6400.

Homemaker/Respite

Non-medical homecare services are available to frail homebound Bernalillo County seniors aged 60 and older who are unable to perform two or more Activities of Daily Living and who have limited income and assets. Services may include light housekeeping, personal care, and errands. Transportation is not provided. Care Coordinators from the Department of Senior Affairs conduct in-home assessments to determine eligibility. Please call 764-6400.

In-Home Respite Care

In-Home Respite Care provides limited relief to full-time caregivers of frail, homebound Bernalillo County seniors aged 60+ who have an Alzheimer's or related dementia problem. The family income must be below $30,000 annually. Care Coordinators from the Department of Senior Affairs do a comprehensive assessment to determine the family's eligibility. Please call 764-6400.

Senior Day Care Services:

The Senior Day Care program provides a supportive environment for frail elders aged 60 and older to reduce isolation, prevent premature institutionalization, and provide respite for caregivers. Five senior day care sites are available throughout the city. Suggested donations, cost sharing scale fee, or private pay.