- Food quality and temperature problems
- Abuse or neglect issues
- Delayed response to resident requests
- Staff attitudes and rough handling of residents
- Lost personal items
- Improper evictions
Frequently Asked Questions
To help better understand our services we have listed some of our more common questions below. Click on the question to view the answers. If you have more questions feel free to contact us.
Volunteer and staff Ombudsman are advocates for residents of nursing homes, board and care homes and assisted living facilities. Ombudsman investigate complaints made by or on behalf of care facility residents. Complaints can be made regarding any issue; most involve problems with care or abuse. Unless a resident gives the Ombudsman permission to share his or her concerns, all matters are kept confidential.
Ombudsman regularly make unannounced visits to Skilled Nursing and Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly to ensure that residents are receiving the highest possible quality of life and care. During the visit, the Ombudsman checks for health and safety issues (such as blocked emergency exits and tripping hazards). The Ombudsman will also meet with individual residents to talk about any concerns, problems or complaints. In addition, Ombudsman provide training to facility staff, residents, and family regarding care issues, resident rights, and elder abuse prevention.
All Ombudsman services are provided free of charge to:
- Residents of any nursing home or board and care facility, including assisted living facilities
- A family member or friend of a nursing home resident
- A nursing home administrator or employee with a concern about a resident at their facility
- Any individual or citizen’s group interested in the welfare of residents
- Individuals and families who are considering long-term care placement
Ombudsman regularly advocate for improvements in resident care and work to improve their quality of life. In addition, during conflicts the Ombudsman acts as a neutral third party representing the interests of the care facility resident.