Join the Ability First Team | View Opportunities
Join the Ability First Team | View Opportunities
Short-Term, Professional Support That Sustains Caregivers and Strengthens Families
At Ability First, we provide trusted Respite Care services in New Mexico designed to give family caregivers the time, rest, and relief they need – while ensuring adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities continue receiving safe, professional care.
Respite Care is not simply “time away.” It is a structured, short-term care solution that protects the well-being of both the individual and the primary caregiver. Whether delivered in the individual’s home, a provider’s home, or within the community, our Respite Care Service is grounded in safety, person centered-care, and professional standards.
Recognizing the Demands of Long-Term Caregiving
Caring for a loved one with developmental disabilities is deeply important and rewarding – but it also carries significant responsibility.
Family caregivers often balance:
Without regular respite, caregivers often experience stress, fatigue, and emotional strain. Ultimately, the risk of burnout can affect the well-being of both the caregiver and the individual receiving care.
Respite Care services exist to provide relief – not just for emergencies, but as a planned and proactive resource that helps families recharge and sustain long-term caregiving relationships and responsibilities.
Respite care for adults with disabilities is short term care designed to provide temporary relief for the primary caregiver.
Under the DD Waiver in New Mexico, respite services may be delivered:
The goal is to maintain safety and continuity of care while allowing caregivers a short break to rest, manage other responsibilities, and attend to personal needs.
At Ability First, Respite Care providers complete required background checks and state-mandated training, ensuring excellent care that aligns with New Mexico Department of Health standards.
Providing Relief Without Compromising Quality
As a provider serving New Mexico since 2004, at Ability First, we understand that Respite Care must be both compassionate and professional.
Our Respite Care services are:
We provide Respite Care in a way that maintains structure and stability – so families can rest knowing their loved one continues to receive consistent, respectful support.
Respite services are tailored to meet specific needs while maintaining continuity with the individual’s broader service plan.
Whether supporting adults with developmental disabilities or individuals with developmental delay, our goal is to ensure each short break feels safe, structured, and beneficial for everyone involved.
Respite Care is not a luxury – it is an essential resource for long-term caregiving.
Research from organizations such as the Arch National Respite Network highlights the importance of respite resources in preventing caregiver burnout and protecting emotional and physical health.
By providing access to Respite Care Services in New Mexico, we help families:
Respite Care in New Mexico is typically funded through the DD Waiver.
Eligibility is determined through assessment and coordination with case management professionals. Funding levels and available services vary depending on the individual’s plan.
Ability First delivers services under both the DD Waiver and the Mi Via Waiver in New Mexico. Our DD Waiver services are available in Albuquerque, Santa Fe, Las Vegas NM, while Mi Via services are offered to eligible individuals statewide.
If you are unsure whether Respite Care is available to your family, our team can help determine eligibility and next steps.
Ability First actively seeks compassionate, reliable respite providers across New Mexico.
This role plays a vital part in promoting stability for individuals with disabilities and sustaining the well-being of family caregivers.
If you are committed to delivering professional, respectful care, we welcome your enquiry about career opportunities.
At Ability First, safety and quality are non-negotiable.
We emphasize:
We are committed to protecting both the individual receiving Respite Care and the caregivers who depend on it.
Community-based residential support that promotes independence while maintaining structured oversight, safety, and person-centered care.
A home-based model where individuals live with approved caregivers in a private family home, fostering meaningful, long-term relationships.
Short-term support that provides relief for primary caregivers while ensuring continuity of safe, professional care.
Personalized assistance delivered in an individual’s own home to support daily living, skill development, and community participation.
Individualized employment development and job support designed to help adults engage in meaningful work within their community.
Engaging day services designed to support skill development, social growth, and meaningful daily participation.
Professional health monitoring and medical coordination tailored to individual needs and delivered in accordance with program standards.
If you are seeking Respite Care for adults with disabilities, or if you are interested in becoming a respite care provider, our team is here to assist you.
At Ability First, we are committed to supporting families, strengthening caregivers, and promoting well-being across New Mexico.
