An Ombudsman is an advocate for residents of nursing homes, board and care homes, and assisted living.
Ombudsmen provide information about how to find a facility and what to do to get quality care.
They are trained to resolve problems. If you want, the ombudsman can assist you with complaints. However, unless you give the ombudsman permission to share your concerns, these matters are kept confidential. Under the federal Older Americans Act, every state is required to have an Ombudsman Program that addresses complaints and advocates for improvements in the long term care system. To find the ombudsman nearest you, contact your State Ombudsman office.