Ombudsman Volunteers Wanted

Have you heard about the Ombudsman Program? Well, here is a great opportunity to serve in your local community and support older adults. The Department on Aging is seeking Ombudsman volunteers to serve as an advocate and address problems for older adults living in long-term care communities.

Primary Responsibilities

 Visit assigned facilities regularly, providing an independent presence in the facility.

 Maintain a professional relationship with residents, family, and facility staff.

 Work to resolve complaints made by residents of long-term care facilities.

 Provide information, referral, and education regarding long-term care rights and other concerns of residents and their families.

 Attend and support resident and family council activities.

 Maintain accurate records as directed.

 Keep information obtained about residents confidential.

Qualifications

 Have an interest in advocating for residents.

 Be at least 18 years of age.

 Be free of irremediable conflicts of interest.

 Possess good verbal, writing, and reading skills; and

 Agree to a criminal background check pursuant to the Health Care Worker Background Check Act.

 Complete required trainings.

If you are interested in making a difference in the lives of older adults in Illinois, head to: Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program