New Mexico Seeks Volunteers to Protect 12,000 Care Residents

New Mexico’s Aging and Long-Term Services Department is recruiting volunteers to protect the rights of more than 12,000 residents in nursing homes, assisted living centres and other long-term care facilities statewide, according to the department’s October 29 announcement.

The recruitment appeal coincides with National Residents’ Rights Month, which highlights residents’ dignity, independence and participation in decisions affecting their daily lives. This year’s theme, “Join Us at the Table”, encourages community members to support people receiving institutional care.

Volunteers Support Residents’ Rights

Through its Ombudsman Programme, the department provides free, confidential advocacy to help residents understand their rights, raise concerns and resolve problems involving their care.

Cabinet Secretary Emily Kaltenbach emphasised that moving into residential care should not remove a person’s independence.

“Moving into a long-term care facility should never mean giving up that voice. Our Long-Term Care Ombudsman help ensure residents are listened to and taken seriously,” Kaltenbach said.

The department identifies food choices, individual care plans, personal belongings and living arrangements as important areas of residents’ rights.

Trained ombudsmen visit facilities, educate residents and families, advocate for fair treatment and help resolve complaints through mediation. Their work gives residents an additional channel for addressing concerns about everyday living conditions.

Training and Volunteer Applications

New Mexicans interested in participating receive comprehensive volunteer training and continuing support from the department’s Ombudsman team.

Prospective volunteers can learn about the application process through the department’s website at aging.nm.gov or by calling 800-432-2080.