Volunteer Ombudsman

Overview

By becoming a volunteer Ombudsman you can change the life of people who live in long-term care facilities. Volunteers serve as advocates to ensure residents receive the quality of care and quality of life they deserve.

GECAC's Long-Term Care Ombudsman program advocates for residents of long-term care facilities, which include nursing homes, personal care homes, assisted-living facilities, adult day centers, and domiciliary care homes. Through regular visits by staff and trained volunteers, the program provides a visible presence to residents. This provides the assurance residents need to stay connected to their community and know they have an advocate who is there to support them.

Volunteer Qualifications

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old
Have access to reliable transportation
Possess genuine care and concern for older adults
Complete required training
Communicate effectively with residents and staff to provide accurate information
Adhere to confidentiality and conflict of interest requirements of the program

What You Will Do

Complete training programs both online and with Ombudsman mentor and State Ombudsman office
Make monthly visits to assigned facilities
Provide education about residents' rights and person-centered care
Advocate for residents' rights, quality of care, and quality of life
Provide information on nursing homes and personal care homes
Address resident or family concerns about person-centered care
Provide education about issues related to long-term care
Receive continuing education