May is Older Americans Month. The Long-Term Care Ombudsman program at the Ohio
District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. serves some of our most vulnerable older Ohioans.
The word “Ombudsman” may not be familiar to everyone, but the mission of the long-term care ombudsman program is simple – we advocate for Ohioans receiving long-term care.
Whether in nursing homes, assisted living, adult group homes, or through in-home services, Ombudsmen empower, educate, and advocate for individuals to have a voice in their quality of care and daily living.
The long-term care ombudsman program encourages everyone to plan ahead for the possibility of needing long-term care. One key service we offer is to help Ohioans evaluate their care options, learn what questions to ask, and how to choose long-term care to suit their needs.
Because we are funded through federal and state funds, our services are unbiased, provided at no charge, and a phone call away.
Another essential service from the long-term care ombudsman is to champion the concerns of those already living in long-term care. We visit long-term care communities, speak to residents, help them know their rights, and empower residents to speak up for excellence in their care.
If residents want our help, we will advocate on their behalf to solve problems related to their care, safety, environment, preferences and more. Last year we helped resolve over 370 complaints for residents living in Region 5 which covers Ashland, Crawford, Huron, Knox, Marion, Morrow, Richland, Seneca, and Wyandot Counties.
Every resident living in a long-term care setting deserves a safe environment, quality care, and to be treated with dignity and respect. It is the role of the Ombudsman Program to help this vulnerable population make this a reality.
You can reach your Region 5 Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program at 800-860-5799 or btatro@aaa5ohio.org.
Beverly Tatro
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program Director
Ohio Dist. 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc.