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

What GECAC Will Do

  • Training sessions are provided
  • Provide continuing education

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Request More Info

Carolyn DiMattio
Ombudsman
(814) 459-4581 Ext. 593
ombudsman@gecac.org