Long Term Care Ombudsman Program
The Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) was created in 1972 and is established in all states under the Older Americans Act administered by the Administration on Aging. This advocacy program provides opportunities for residents of long term care facilities and their families to voice problems and concerns that impact their quality of life and care. The role of the LTCOP is important in helping ensure the safety and welfare of thousands of New York State long term care residents.
Catholic Charities Senior & Caregiver Support Services LTCOP is one of 15 regional programs statewide. The Program serves 10 counties – Albany, Fulton, Hamilton, Montgomery, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren, and Washington – having been awarded the grant on October 1, 2015. The program is dually funded by the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) and the Administration for Community Living (ACL).
What is an Ombudsman?
A Long Term Care Certified Ombudsman is a dedicated, trained staff or volunteer committed to improving the quality of care of residents in New York State long-term care facilities. Ombudsmen make a difference in the lives of a vulnerable population by listening to residents and their families and helping them to understand and exercise their rights to quality care and quality of life. The Certified Ombudsman confidentially assists residents and family members with the following services:
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Identifying, investigating, and resolving individual and systematic complaints around quality of care and resident rights
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Educating residents and families in understanding their rights as residents
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Connecting long-term care facility residents to the person(s) responsible for their care
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Empowering residents and families on how to express their concerns and makes referrals to other appropriate community and advocacy agencies
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Receiving and answering questions from individuals regarding financial, social, family, or legal issues
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Protecting and advocating for the rights of persons living in long-term care facilities
What is the Eligibility Requirement to Use the Program?
There are no age requirements or fees for this program, only that you or a loved one are a current resident or rehabilitation patient of a nursing home, adult home, assisted living residence, or licensed family-type home.
Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteer opportunities are available in Albany, Fulton, Montgomery, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Warren, and Washington counties. Comprehensive training is required to become a Certified Ombudsman and is coordinated by the program. A weekly time commitment is also required to be a volunteer Ombudsman.
Contact Us…
For more information about this program, contact Catholic Charities at (518) 372-5667.
