Senior Behavioral Health Programs

Receive short-term (up to three weeks) care. UNM’s Senior Behavioral Health program offers recovery-centered inpatient care to improve mental and physical health in patients 55 and older. 

We help seniors address their mental health needs and reconnect with personal hopes and motivations.

Our safe, therapeutic environment allows seniors to maintain normalcy in everyday routines. The Senior Behavioral Health Unit team works in tandem with Sandoval Regional Medical Center (SRMC) to ensure that patients' medical and psychiatric needs are addressed simultaneously and cohesively.

Dedicated Senior Care

Come to the UNM Senior Health Center. Meet with doctors, nurses and medical experts to receive comprehensive care.

Complete In-Patient Care 

You or your loved one will benefit from our comprehensive services including:

  • Assessment and diagnosis
  • Medication management and physical nursing support
  • Primary therapy
  • Community, family and group therapy
  • Rehabilitation support
  • Group work and activities
  • Discharge planning to help seniors and their families prepare to return to the community

Safe, Supportive Facilities

We are a 12-bed inpatient unit with a central day room, space for therapeutic group activities and a large outdoor patio and garden. The unit was designed for older adults who are experiencing mental health issues and behavior changes that interfere with their ability to function or compromise their quality of life.

The unit was designed to accommodate the special needs of elderly patients with diminished physical capabilities. Every detail in the unit was considered to ensure a safe, secure environment, including modified plumbing and specialty door handles.

In addition, the layout of the unit enables staff members to have constant supervision over the safety and well-being of their patients.

Senior Care Admission Requirements

Our program is designed for patients who are at least 55 years old and medically stable. To be eligible, patients must also meet these criteria:

  • Have a primary psychiatric illness
  • Are experiencing a mental health crisis
  • Can participate in a structured group program that requires daily socialization
  • Can do most activities of daily living with limited assistance

We can manage minor medical issues, but these must be secondary to the patient’s psychiatric diagnosis and treatment.