Every state has ombudsmen at both the state and local levels who are dedicated to protecting the rights of nursing home residents. An ombudsman is an official who is appointed to receive and investigate complaints on behalf of a group of people. A long-term care ombudsman is there to listen to and help resolve complaints on matters affecting nursing home residents and their families. Where one complaint might not be enough to cause significant change, an ombudsman can collect and organize information from a large number of individuals, and help direct their collective voice into action.

Because they specialize in issues surrounding nursing homes, this type of ombudsman can also be a valuable source of information if you are considering a nursing home for yourself or a loved one. They can provide tips on what to look for in a nursing home in order to make your search easier and more successful using their expertise. They also help promote awareness of the issues affecting nursing home residents to the general public, helping give the elderly a voice in their larger community. A long-term care ombudsman serves as a “watchdog” and an agent of change where there are problems that need to be solved.

Your local ombudsman is not affiliated with your nursing home or insurance agency, and therefore can provide you with uncompromising, objective counsel on matters that you are concerned about. They can provide you with information free of charge, that might otherwise require consultation with a lawyer. A nursing home ombudsman also tries to come to you, to be accessible to everyone, and do the best they can to make sure the people they represent are heard and responded to.

With all the issues to consider when choosing a nursing home, weighing pros and cons, and then continuing to make sure the resident’s needs are met over the long term, it is reassuring to know there are services out there working on your behalf. Allowing someone else to do the monitoring lets you concentrate on the more personal details of your loved one’s life in the nursing home, and relax and enjoy your visits.

If you have questions or concerns about any number of issues regarding your nursing home, your rights as a nursing home resident, and more, contact your ombudsman. If they can’t take care of your inquiry directly, they will be able to refer you to someone who can. Take advantage of the benefits of an ombudsman and how they can help you; they are a valuable source of information and support. It is their job to work on your behalf and for the continued quality of life for residents of nursing homes across the nation.