The term “ombudsman” describes someone who intercedes with governments and institutions on behalf of ordinary citizens. The Long Term Care Ombudsmen are advocates for residents of nursing homes, board and care homes, and similar adult care facilities. They work to resolve problems of individual residents and to bring about changes at the local, state, and national levels to improve care. While most residents receive good care in long-term care facilities, far too many are neglected, and other unfortunate incidents of psychological, physical, and other kinds of abuses occur. Thus, thousands of trained volunteer ombudsmen regularly visit long-term care facilities, monitor conditions and care, and provide a voice for those unable to speak for themselves.

Ombudsmen help residents and their families and friends understand and exercise rights that are guaranteed by law, both at the federal level and in many states. Families and residents are encouraged to contact their local ombudsman if they have concerns about any of the following issues: Finances, Medicaid eligibility, restraints, guardianship, food quality, transfers and discharges, room temperature, social activities, rights restrictions, and care plans.

Anyone who has a concern about a long-term care resident can contact the Ombudsman. They can include; friends, family members, facility staff or administrator, health care official, anonymous caller, and guardian.

ECCOA’s Ombudsman program consists of: Shannon Griffith – Regional Ombudsman and supervisor of the program and Becky Mays,–Community Ombudsman. The program also consists of Volunteer Ombudsman, trained and certified by the Illinois Department on Aging to visit and provide a presence on a regular basis to residents of nursing homes. Any concerns are brought to the attention of the Regional Ombudsman.

COMMUNITY OMBUDSMAN are on staff in ECCOA’s satellite offices.

COMMUNITY OMBUDSMEN are trained and certified by the Department on Aging to investigate complaints and answer inquiries. It is, however, the primary duty of the Regional Ombudsmen to investigate complaints, answer inquiries, as well as coordinate the volunteer program and presenting resident rights to nursing home residents, families and staff.

ECCOA’s Ombudsman Program maintains a monthly presence in each of the 35 homes in its’ five county service area and takes a pro-active approach to the program. We are very proud of our staff and wonderful volunteers who willingly “protect” those who are unable to protect themselves.

BECOME A VOLUNTEER OMBUDSMAN

Ombudsman volunteers are trained representatives that visit residents in nursing homes on a regular basis. They establish a regular presence in the facility and provide information about residents rights, quality of care, and quality of life. More than just friendly visitors, volunteers observe conditions, advocate for residents, and handle uncomplicated complaints.

Volunteers are the eyes and ears of the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program and are rewarded by knowing their presence can make a difference in the lives and care of long term care residents.