Long Term Care Ombudsman Program

The Ombudsman Program serves long-term care residents. The program works with residents, families and friends to resolve concerns within the facility. The Ombudsman has the authority to explore solutions and to recommend a corrective course of action.

Local volunteers support the Ombudsman Program. These volunteers are committed to improving and enriching the lives of institutionalized older persons. The AAA provides local training, supervision and support for the volunteers. They are trained in skills such as problem solving and communication, and information about long-term care regulations.

Who is an Ombudsman and what do they do?

The Ombudsman acts as friend, problem-solver
and advocate by:

• Visiting residents of care facilities
• Promoting quality of care and quality of life
• Protecting resident's rights
• Investigating and resolving problems
• Providing education on the needs and rights of residents
• Working with resident and family councils
• Coordinating with community agencies
• Assisting family and friends with concerns of care and well being of loved ones.

Why is there a need for Ombudsman?

There are 30 nursing facilities, 5 assisted living facilities, 9 residential care facilities, 3 hospital skilled nursing facilities, 2 adult day care facilities and 1 continuum care facility, in the eight county area. These facilities together serve approximately 3,000 elderly residents. Almost half have no living relatives. They are alone.

Ombudsmen are important links to the residents' community; they are eyes, ears and voice in promoting quality of care and life. The Ombudsman goal is to ensure, uphold and protect the rights of residents in long-term care facilities. We need you!

How can I become an Ombudsman?

You can become a certified Ombudsman by participating in an intial 16 hours professional training program. In addition, you will also be expected to provide 2 to 4 hours of volunteer service per week and attend monthly program meetings for support and continuing training.

The Ombudsman Program is committed to providing you with quality training, field supervision and support, reimbursement for mileage, and recognition awards and ceremonies for service.

If you are interested in becoming an Ombudsman or have concerns about a loved one or friend in a long term care facility, please contact the Ombudsman Program at 580.237.2236 or 800.749.1149.

This is a confidential public service and is provided at no charge.