The Resource Center for Independent Living is pleased to offer a FREE Ombudsman Training Course starting on Sept. 12th. The course will provide information and in-depth training regarding the role of the Ombudsman, resident rights & care plans, advocacy skills, regulations and enforcement, cultural influences in nursing homes, elder care law, Alzheimer’s awareness, complaint investigations and documentation.
Upon course completion, participants will become state certified Ombudsman, working to resolve problems and improve care for the residents of nursing homes and long-term care facilities. The program was developed as a way to help residents and their families understand and exercise their rights regarding their quality of care and quality of life while living in long-term care facilities.
“Our region is in high need of Ombudsmen volunteers to represent residents’ rights. Living in a nursing home does not mean your individual rights and freedoms disappear. We are looking for dedicated volunteers to provide a regular presence (about 2-6 hours per week) in local long-term care facilities. Providing a voice for the elderly who aren’t always able to speak for themselves is a very rewarding experience. If you have the passion to improve the quality of life for others, this may be the volunteer experience for you!” explained Krystal Wheatley, Local Long Term Care Senior Ombudsman Program Coordinator.
The FREE NYS Long Term Care Ombudsman Program Certification Training Course will take place from 1pm-6pm on Sept. 12th, 13th, 15th, 19th, 21st and 22nd at RCIL Headquarters, volunteers are urged to immediately contact Krystal Wheatley at 315-272- 1872 to be eligible for the September training.
The Herkimer, Madison, Oneida, and Otsego County Ombudsman Program is administered through the Resource Center for Independent Living (RCIL) with volunteers certified by the Office of the Long Term Care Ombudsman.