The Illinois Department on Aging's Long Term Care Ombudsman Program protects and promotes the rights and quality of life for people who reside in nursing homes and other long term care facilities throughout the state. Ombudsmen provide a voice to vulnerable residents who otherwise may have no one to speak for them. Ombudsmen, paid and volunteer, inform residents of their rights, advocate for them, and resolve complaints. Complaints may involve problems with food, personal care, privacy, medication, use of restraints, accidents such as falls, and other issues. Complaints and concerns are received from residents, family, friends and facility personnel.
Ombudsmen seek to resolve any problems or concerns in an expedient and confidential manner.
If the complaint involves alleged abuse or neglect of the resident, however, the Illinois Department on Aging's Long Term Care Ombudsman Program may work with the Illinois Department of Public Health to intervene. The need for long term care is growing at an unprecedented rate, which is spurring new approaches to this type of care. It also stresses treating staff in a positive and enlightened way to increase morale, performance and retention. The Illinois Department on Aging's Long Term Care Ombudsman Program continues to offer Pioneer training workshops. E-mail us your answer.