Nursing home abuse is a serious issue that affects many older adults. It is important to have resources available to protect the safety and well-being of nursing home residents. One such resource is the ombudsman program, which provides advocacy and support to residents of long-term care facilities. On this page, we will explore the role of the ombudsman in nursing home abuse cases.

What is an Ombudsman?

An ombudsman is a trained and certified advocate who works with residents of long-term care facilities to protect their rights and interests. Ombudsmen are typically appointed by state or local governments and work independently of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities. Their role is to ensure that residents receive high-quality care and are treated with dignity and respect.

Reporting Abuse to the Ombudsman

If you suspect that a resident is being abused or neglected in a nursing home, you can report it to the ombudsman. The ombudsman will investigate the complaint and work with the resident, their family, and the nursing home staff to resolve the issue. Ombudsmen have the authority to access records and facilities, interview staff members and residents, and take legal action if necessary.

Advocating for Residents

Ombudsmen advocate for residents’ rights and interests by providing information, support, and advocacy. They can help residents understand their rights and responsibilities, provide information about available resources and services, and help residents and their families navigate the complex healthcare system. Ombudsmen can also act as a liaison between residents and nursing home staff, helping to resolve conflicts and improve communication.

Educating Residents and Families

In addition to advocating for residents, ombudsmen also provide education and training to residents and their families. They can offer information about residents’ rights and responsibilities, how to recognize and report abuse, and how to access resources and services. By providing education and training, ombudsmen empower residents and their families to advocate for themselves and protect their own safety and well-being.

Collaborating with Nursing Homes and Community Organizations

Ombudsmen also work collaboratively with nursing homes and community organizations to promote resident safety and well-being. They can provide training and education to nursing home staff, work with community organizations to provide resources and services to residents, and collaborate with government agencies to improve regulations and policies related to nursing home care.

Getting Results

The ombudsman program is an important resource for nursing home residents and their families. Ombudsmen play a critical role in preventing and addressing nursing home abuse by providing advocacy, support, education, and collaboration. By working with ombudsmen, residents, and their families can protect their rights, access resources, and services, and ensure that they receive high-quality care in a safe and respectful environment. However, we have seen times when the Ombudsman is overworked and not able to keep an eye on every facility. Therefore it can be imperative for you to contact a nursing home abuse lawyer to advocate on your behalf and get their attention.