In New Mexico, family caregivers may be able to get financial assistance through the state’s Centennial Care Community Benefit option. Centennial Care is New Mexico’s Medicaid program, and the Community Benefit option provides a wide range of services that enable the state’s seniors to remain at home. Under Community Benefit, seniors can opt to self-direct their home care, which means they’re given money to pay family caregivers and other attendants of their choice. Below, learn more about Community Benefit and its eligibility requirements.

Centennial Care Community Benefit Overview

Community Benefit has two options to choose from: Self-Directed and Agency-Based. Under the Self-Directed option, seniors can hire and pay for their own caregivers, while Agency-Based includes a care coordinator who manages services on their behalf. Seniors who choose Self-Directed must be capable of hiring, training and supervising their caregivers or have access to a trusted person who can handle these tasks for them.

Community Benefit services include:

  • Home health care
  • Housekeeping
  • Skilled and specialized therapies
  • Nonmedical transportation
  • Employment training
  • Adult day care/social activities
  • Emergency response system
  • Nutrition counseling
  • Medical supplies and equipment

Eligibility and How to Apply

Seniors must be eligible for Centennial Care to get the Community Benefit option. In 2023, Centennial Care has an income limit of $2,742 per month and an asset limit of $2,000. Applicants must also require help with at least two activities of daily living, such as mobility, dressing, bathing and feeding themselves.

To get started, seniors can sign up for Centennial Care on the state’s Medicaid portal, Yes New Mexico. For questions, they can call 1 (800) 283-4465.