Santa Fe Standard

Santa Fe County, responding to the aging population of New Mexico, has launched a Senior Needs Survey aimed at preparing for increasing demands in healthcare, housing, and other services for seniors. This effort marks a strategic initiative to organize the future of senior support for the next decade.

The Senior Services Division of Santa Fe County is collaborating with the Center for Applied Research and Analysis at the University of New Mexico. This partnership aims to identify and prioritize senior programming based on the survey findings.

Individuals aged 50 or older, as well as caregivers over 18 caring for someone aged 50 or older in Santa Fe County, are encouraged to participate. The survey, available online until April 25, can also be accessed in paper format in both English and Spanish at local senior centers.

Several special events will occur in conjunction with the survey period, including a Health & Wellness Fair on April 21 at the Santa Fe County Fairgrounds and a Rancho Viejo Senior Services Open House on April 22. Community outreach events will continue through April 23, leading to a Spring Fling Dance on April 24. The initiative will conclude with a Survey Celebration featuring a lunch and ice cream social on April 25 at participating senior centers.

Emphasizing the importance of this survey, Matilda Byers, Senior Services Program Manager, said, “This survey is a vital tool to help ensure we’re meeting the needs of our seniors now and in the future. By participating, seniors and caregivers will help shape the services, programs, and facilities that best serve our growing senior community.”

For further details, the Santa Fe County Senior Services can be contacted at 505-992-3069.