For many families, caring for a loved one is about commitment, not money. But for some New Mexicans caring for older adults, a state program is helping ease the financial burden that comes with that responsibility.

SANTA FE, N.M. — For many families, caring for a loved one is about commitment, not money. But for some New Mexicans caring for older adults, a state program is helping ease the financial burden that comes with that responsibility.

The state has expanded efforts to support families beyond free universal child care by also providing financial assistance for some caregivers of adults ages 60 and older through a program called New MexiCare.

For Jim and Cyndi Harlan of Santa Fe, the assistance has helped bring peace of mind while allowing them to focus on the moments that matter most.

Songs of summer nights fill the Harlans’ home. After more than 50 years of marriage, the couple is still dancing and holding hands.

“We realized, you know, early on that we were gonna be together all this time,” said Jim Harlan, Cyndi’s caregiver.

Six years ago, Cyndi Harlan was diagnosed with dementia.

“If the shoe was on the other foot, Cyndi would be taking care of me. I mean, as long as she could, you know,” Jim Harlan said.

As Cyndi’s needs changed, Jim Harlan continued caring for her. When New MexiCare launched its pilot program, he enrolled.

“It’s a governor’s initiative, she said let’s provide financial assistance and training to informal caregivers,” said Emily Kaltenbach, cabinet secretary for the New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department.

Kaltenbach said qualifying caregivers can earn up to $12,000 a year through the program. Caregivers submit timesheets and are paid $12.50 an hour.

“It kind of takes the edge off. You know, you don’t have to worry so much how much you spend at the grocery store,” Jim Harlan said.

According to the Aging and Long-Term Services Department, more than 25% of New Mexicans will be older than 65 within the next five years. Kaltenbach said the state is facing a shortage of health care professionals and nursing home beds.

“85% of participating caregivers reported reduced financial strain, and caregivers also reported reductions in emotional and physical stress. We also saw a significant decrease in emergency room visits of care recipients who were enrolled in our program,” Kaltenbach said.

The Harlans said the financial freedom provided by the program has created opportunities for joy, laughter and fun.

“Cyndi doesn’t always know who I am, but most of the time, I think now you do, don’t you? And it’s just you know, it’s precious to have these moments where we are are enjoying a little bit every day,” Jim Harlan said.

When asked about the past six years, Cyndi Harlan reflected on her experience.

“The best years of life came to us in a very interesting way,” Cyndi Harlan said.

Funding for the New MexiCare pilot program is running low. State lawmakers will decide during the next legislative session whether to renew funding from the general fund and the state startup fund known as GRO.

More information about New MexiCare is available through the New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department.