Ombudsman

Benefits of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program

• Residents of long-term care facilities benefit through trusting relationships with trained

volunteers who are well-informed and objective, listen to concerns, and respect residents’ privacy and confidentially.

• Volunteers benefit through the joy of making a difference in the lives of residents, and volunteers utilize and enhance their interpersonal skills.

Volunteer ombudsmen utilize skills in:

• Confidentiality
• Listening
• Communication
• Relationship building
• Problem resolution
• Resident rights
• Negotiation skills
• Self-resolution skills

To become a volunteer in the ombudsman program, you:

• Must be 18 years or older, have reliable transportation, are able to complete a background check, and possess genuine care and concern for older adults.
• Volunteers are required to visit an assigned facility on a regular basis.
• A training program, including shadowing and mentoring, is required before certification and placement. An annual 18 hours of continuing education is required.

The Ombudsman mission:

“Advocate for those who can’t, support those who can, and ensure

all long-term care consumers live with dignity and respect.”

Contact us:

Bucks County Area Agency on Aging

Stephanie Schwartz, Volunteer Coordinator

T: 267-880-5733

Email: Sbschwartz@buckscounty.org