These are the same steps our staff use when they help someone. "They" means the person who needs help: you, or someone you are helping. Go in order, and call ahead when you can.
1Check health and safety first
You can ask"Do you have any sores, fever, or a bad headache right now? Are you able to empty your bladder?"
A pounding headache, red face and sweating above the injury can be autonomic dysreflexia. It is an emergency. Call 911.
Fever, chills, or a deep sore with a bad smell needs care today. See the guide "Has a sore, wound or foot problem that won't heal".
You can say"Many people live full lives with paralysis. Let's find the help you need."
2Get a doctor and therapy
Hidalgo Medical Servicesnot yet confirmed: call first
Silver City Community Health Center: Primary medical care
575-800-1467
1007 N. Pope St., Silver City · Mon-Fri 7:00 am-6:00 pm
Gila Regional Medical Center
Rehabilitation Center (physical, occupational and speech therapy)
575-538-4899
300 E. 16th St., Silver City · Call to check
Horizon Home Health
Medicare/Medicaid home health
575-388-1801
1250 E 32nd St, Silver City · Weekdays
3Talk to people who understand
Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation
Paralysis Resource Center information specialists and peer mentors
800-539-7309
They answer questions free and can match the person with a peer mentor who lives with paralysis.
United Spinal Association
Spinal Cord Resource Center help line (free membership)
800-962-9629
· 9am-5pm Eastern
The Ability Center for Independent Living (TACIL)
Independent living services and rep payee
575-526-5016
715 E Idaho Ave, Bldg 3E, Las Cruces · Weekdays; food pantry Mon-Thu (call first)
4Supplies, equipment and help at home
NM Health Care Authority
Turquoise Care Community Benefit (in-home care instead of a nursing home)
800-283-4465
NM Governor's Commission on Disability - RAMP
Residential Accessibility Modification Program (free ramps and bathroom changes)
505-476-0419
491 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe
5Money and a place to live
At the Gospel MissionThe case worker can help apply for SSI, Medicaid and accessible housing.
More help like this
A senior (55+ or 60+) needs helpUse when an older guest (55 or older) needs food, help at home, Medicare help, or may not be safe.A senior or disabled adult is being neglected, abused or taken advantage ofUse when an older or disabled adult is being hurt, neglected, left without care, or someone is taking their money or property.An older person seems confused, lost or wanderingUse when an older adult seems lost or confused, can't say where they live, or is wandering outside alone, maybe because of dementia or a medical problem.Caring for an aging parent, or a senior who can't get outUse when an older person can't manage at home, can't get out, is alone, or their family caregiver needs help.Needs a wheelchair, walker or other medical equipmentUse when someone needs a wheelchair, walker, shower chair, hearing or communication device, or other equipment to live safely.Can't hear well, needs hearing aids, or is deafUse when someone has hearing loss, needs hearing aids or an amplified phone, or is deaf and needs an interpreter.
See all guides in Family, seniors and veterans →
This guide is general information only, not medical, legal or other professional advice. Places and rules change, so please call before you go. In an emergency, call 911; in a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Disclaimer
Know a better way? Is something out of date?
If a number or place here is wrong, you know a better resource, or you know a better way to help, tell us. We automatically check reliable sources and update supported routine details. Unclear changes and safety guidance go to our staff for review.
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Questions, or want someone to walk through this with you? The Silver City Gospel Mission, 111 S. Texas St., Silver City,
575-388-5071, weekdays 9:00am-1:45pm. Everyone is welcome.