For older adults living in skilled nursing and assisted living communities, having someone to turn to with questions or concerns about their care can be important. That’s where ombudsmen come in.
Through United Way of Tarrant County’s Area Agency on Aging of Tarrant County (AAATC), the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program provides advocacy and support to residents. The program’s staff and trained volunteer ombudsmen listen to residents’ concerns, explain their rights and advocate on their behalf to help address issues related to their care and quality of life.
Oct. 8 is Ombudsman Day, a time to recognize the people who advocate for residents and raise awareness of the support available to older adults and their families.
What is a long-term care ombudsman?
A long-term care ombudsman is a trained advocate who works with residents in skilled nursing and assisted living communities. Ombudsmen listen to residents, explain their rights and help them address concerns about their care and quality of life.
The ombudsman role began in Sweden in 1809, when an official was appointed to investigate complaints and protect citizens' rights. The concept later spread to other countries and industries. In the United States, the Older Americans Act of 1965 established programs and services to support older adults. As concerns about nursing home conditions and residents' rights grew, long-term care ombudsman programs emerged in the early 1970s.
Today, long-term care ombudsmen advocate for residents facing issues such as abuse, neglect, improper transfer or discharge and violations of their rights. They regularly visit long-term care facilities, speak with residents and learn about their needs and preferences to ensure their voices are heard. Ombudsmen also provide information and support to families navigating questions or concerns about a loved one's care.
How can an ombudsman help?
Moving into a nursing home or assisted living facility can be a major change for an older adult and their family. Residents are adjusting to a new environment, new routines and sometimes to changes in their independence. An ombudsman can help residents understand that they still have a voice in decisions about their care and daily lives.
“Ombudsmen provide a safe, confidential space where individuals can feel heard, and we empower people to navigate the long-term care system with dignity,” said Yuri Martinez, AAATC staff ombudsman and volunteer coordinator.
Because ombudsmen regularly talk with residents, they also get a firsthand look at the concerns older adults experience in long-term care. They voice concerns with facility staff and, when appropriate, work with other agencies to help address issues affecting residents.
Become a volunteer ombudsman
The AAATC Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program also offers an opportunity for people who want to advocate for older adults in their community.
“Volunteering is a great way to connect with people. We are helping society’s most vulnerable,” said George Russell Jr., AAATC volunteer ombudsman.
If you enjoy working with older adults and want to advocate for people in your community, consider becoming a volunteer ombudsman. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and live in Tarrant County.
Need help with a concern about a nursing home or assisted living facility?
The AAATC can provide information and advocacy to residents and their families. Call 817-258-8102 or learn more about aging, disability and caregiver resources.