What is a long-term care ombudsman?

A long-term care ombudsman is an advocate for residents of nursing homes, assisted living and similar care facilities. The National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center says the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is the only federal program required to advocate with and for these residents, and that every state, plus Washington DC, Puerto Rico and Guam, must have an Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman.

An ombudsman investigates and resolves complaints about residents' rights, quality of life and quality of care. According to the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center, common complaints include improper discharges, medication errors, slow call bell responses, privacy and dignity violations, and alleged abuse. The program also educates residents, families and staff about residents' rights, supports resident and family councils, and pushes for better policies.

For families, an ombudsman is a free place to take concerns about a relative's care in a facility and to learn about residents' rights. Anyone can contact the program, but the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center explains that when a family member raises a complaint, the ombudsman must find out what the resident wants and follow the resident's direction where possible. It also helps family councils develop.

No. All services from the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program are free and confidential, according to the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center. That includes help with complaints about care in a nursing home or assisted living, information about residents' rights, and guidance for families. Amendments to the Older Americans Act in 1978 required every state to have an ombudsman program, so help exists nationwide.

Start with the ombudsman program in the state where the care facility is. Every state, plus Washington DC, Puerto Rico and Guam, has an Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, headed by a full-time State Ombudsman who directs the program statewide. The National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center offers a tool to locate an ombudsman program near you, and anyone can contact the program with concerns.