Enchantment State News

SANTA FE – Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham shared the results of unannounced inspections of senior care facilities across New Mexico, revealing that 88 percent of the inspected facilities had at least one violation.

The inspections, conducted from May 17 to May 19, included 91 visits and identified several areas needing improvement to ensure the health, safety, and dignity of senior residents. The findings are outlined in a summary report.

Of the 91 facilities inspected, only 11 achieved a perfect score of 100 percent, while another 55 earned a rating of 90 percent. Four facilities failed outright.

“Our seniors deserve the highest standard of care and respect,” said Gov. Lujan Grisham. “These findings are unacceptable. My administration is committed to working collaboratively across agencies to protect our most vulnerable residents and ensure that every resident receives high-quality care and lives with dignity.”

“We take the findings of this report very seriously,” said Patrick Allen, Secretary for the New Mexico Department of Health. “The quality of long-term care in New Mexico falls short of what our seniors deserve. This must change, and we are committed to making it happen.”

Infractions detailed in the report ranged from severe incidents requiring immediate reporting to administrative violations such as strong urine or chemical odors, lack of proper signage, or failure to post food menus for residents.

While noting that most staff members were respectful and kind to patients and that 23 facilities missed a perfect score by one mark, the report also highlighted that 88% of the facilities failed at least one aspect of the inspections.

Ombudsmen volunteers play a crucial role by providing a voice for long-term care residents who are particularly vulnerable. These volunteers advocate for residents' rights, investigate concerns, resolve issues, and ensure they receive proper care.

Gov. Lujan Grisham encourages public participation in becoming ombudsman volunteers through the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program at 866-451-2901. Volunteers receive free training and ongoing education.

“We’re proud to house the Office of the State Ombudsman and its Long-Term Care Program,” said Aging & Long-Term Services Department Cabinet Secretary Jen Paul Schroer. “Our dedicated ombudsman volunteers advocate tirelessly for New Mexico’s seniors and adults with disabilities by visiting assisted living facilities regularly.”

“Older New Mexicans and their families deserve the very best when it comes to their care,” said Kyra Ochoa, Deputy Secretary for the New Mexico Health Care Authority. “Our agency is committed to rigorous oversight and transparency at every level.”

If you suspect an adult is being abused or neglected, contact Adult Protective Services at 866-654-3219 or visit aging.nm.gov for more information.