Ombudsman is a Swedish
word that means "citizen representative." An
Ombudsman works to increase responsiveness
of organizations to people they serve.
What is a
Long-Term Care Ombudsman?
A Long Term Care
Ombudsman seeks to improve the quality of
the life for residents of long- term care
facilities. These facilities include nursing
homes, personal care homes and assisted
living facilities. In addition, Ombudsman
serve residents who live in community living
arrangements (CLAs) and intermediate care
facilities for persons with mental
retardation (ICF/MRs).
Investigates
and works to resolve problems or
complaints affecting long-term care
facility residents.
Identifies
problem areas in long-term care and
advocates for change.
Provides
information about long-term care and
related services.
Promotes
resident, family and community
involvement in long term-care.
Educates the
community about the needs of long-term
care residents.
Coordinates
efforts with other agencies concerned
with long-term care.
Visits
long-term care facilities routinely to
talk to residents and monitor
conditions.
Educates
facility staff about residents rights
and other issues.
OUR
MISSION
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Background and
authority
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is
governed by the federal Older Americans Act
and by Georgia law. The Division of Aging
Services of the Georgia Department of Human
Resources administers the statewide
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program through 6
community programs located throughout the
state. These programs are affiliated with
Area Agencies on Aging and funded with
federal, state and local dollars. There is
no charge for services provided by the
Ombudsman Program. However, contributions
are appreciated and are used to support
additional Ombudsman services and activities
to benefit Georgia's long-term care
residents.
