THE STATE OF OHIO Long-Term-Care-Ombudsman Program has roots seeded in federal and state law. The program began as part of the Older Americans Act (federal) of the 1960s and 1970s. Federal legislation in the 1980s and 1990s strengthened the program, and today, every state in our nation has a program. Using federal law as a foundation, the State of Ohio has further defined the role and scope of the program. Both the Ohio Revised Code and the Ohio Administrative Code contain laws that govern the program. Why and how do ombudsmen advocate for excellence?
It can be challenging to speak up Sometimes, it is challenging for residents of nursing homes to make their voices heard. Through regular presence, ombudsmen make visits to facilities and get to know the residents. If residents desire education regarding their rights or assistance to exercise them, ombudsmen can assist.
It can be challenging to address concerns Sometimes, a nursing-home resident will have a specific complaint for which they desire to seek resolution. Ombudsmen assist in investigating the root cause of the concern and identifying solutions for resolution.
It can be challenging to find someone who has time to talk Sometimes,anursing-homeresident wantstomake“smalltalk”andneedsan ear to listen. Ombudsmen do this too!
The services provided by the State of Ohio Long-Term-Care-Ombudsman Program are provided free of charge. If you would like more information about receiving services or becoming a certified ombudsman volunteer, please contact us at 419-259-2891 or visit us at ombudsman.ablelaw.org.
Lori Davis is Region 4 Volunteer Coordinator for the Ombudsman office. ✲
