Specialized Information for:

Nursing HomesAssisted Living/Board & Care Home and Community Based Services
Back to Events

Virtual Office Hour

October 30, 2024        

Virtual Office Hour
The last Wednesday of each month
2:00 - 3:00pm ET

View a list of helpful resources mentioned in these calls.

The National Ombudsman Resource Center (NORC) hosts a virtual office hour the last Wednesday of each month at 2:00 pm ET. This is an opportunity to ask questions, share information, and have open conversations with your peers and NORC staff. Join the call and bring your questions and experiences. 

Upcoming Topics

  • October - Residents’ Rights to Visitation
  • November - NO VIRTUAL OFFICE HOUR DUE TO HOLIDAY
  • December - NO VIRTUAL OFFICE HOUR DUE TO HOLIDAY
  • January - Resident Councils

PLEASE READ: Starting in August 2024, we now record and post these calls and you need to register to attend. If you are registered and attend at least 30 minutes of the call, you will be sent a certificate of participation. These calls are open to all State Ombudsmen and their program representatives. 

NOTE: Limited space is available. Create a monthly calendar reminder on the last Wednesday of each month at 2:00pm ET.

Register for the October 30th call »

Webinar on DEIA and the Ombudsman Program

July 10, 2024        

July 10, 2024 | 2:00 – 3:15 pm ET
REGISTER

Older adults of historically marginalized communities often come into long-term services after experiencing a lifetime of barriers due to discrimination. The U.S. Census estimates that more than half of Americans will belong to a minority group by 2044, so the need for inclusive, culturally aware, and trauma-informed services increases as our population ages. How do Ombudsman programs ensure equitable access to inclusive services? How do Ombudsman programs build more diverse and representative programs with culturally aware staff and volunteers?

Diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) are essential components for creating a foundation that ensures fair treatment and full participation of all individuals, especially those that have been underrepresented and marginalized. Join this webinar to hear how three states have thoughtfully and purposefully started to focus on DEIA principles internally; how your program (and the residents you serve) will benefit when you apply a DEI lens to your management, processes, and advocacy; and hear experiences and considerations from a local perspective. NORC will also introduce a new tool for program self-assessment.

Older Americans Month

May 01, 2024 - May 31, 2024        

Every May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads our nation’s observance of Older Americans Month (OAM). The 2024 theme, Powered by Connection, recognizes the profound impact that meaningful relationships and social connections have on our health and well-being. We will explore the vital role that connectedness plays in supporting independence and aging in place by combatting isolation, loneliness, and other issues. 

To help you plan for OAM, here are some ideas for how you can participate. 

  • Share facts about the mental, physical, and emotional health benefits of social connection and how it contributes to overall well-being.
  • Promote resources that help older adults engage, like community events, social clubs, and volunteer opportunities.
  • Connect older adults with local services, such as transportation, that can help them overcome obstacles to achieving or maintaining meaningful relationships.
  • Encourage partners to host a connection-centric event or program focused on older adult mentors to youth, peer-to-peer support, or similar efforts.
  • Challenge professional and personal networks to prioritize meaningful social connections and share the benefits.
  • Inspire older adults to share what connection means to them on social media using the hashtag #PoweredByConnection. 

​The 2024 logos are available now in English and Spanish. Stay tuned for the OAM poster, social media toolkit, templates, and more. Don’t forget to use #OlderAmericansMonth on social media to share your thoughts and activities and see what others are doing!

This webpage will include suggestions, resources, and material to celebrate older Americans and the communities of which they are a vital part. 

Volunteer Appreciation Week: April 21-27, 2024

April 21, 2024 - April 27, 2024        

National Volunteer Week, April 21-27, 2024 is an opportunity to recognize the impact of volunteer service and the power of volunteers to tackle society’s greatest challenges, to build stronger communities and be a force that transforms the world. The theme for National Volunteer Week is Celebrate Service – an opportunity to shine a light on the people and causes that inspire us to serve. 

Each year, we shine a light on the people and causes that inspire us to serve, recognizing and thanking volunteers who lend their time, talent, and voice to make a difference in their communities. The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) could not be its best without the volunteers who help carry out the mission of advocating for long-term care residents.

Thank your volunteers and recognize their work publicly by sending NORC brief messages of appreciation for their dedicated advocacy (e.g., examples of their advocacy, years of service, photos). We will post your message on our website and highlight the submissions on social media. Email your submissions to ombudcenter@theconsumervoice.org.

Learn more on the Points of Light website.

Webinar on Substance Use Disorder 101

April 17, 2024        

Join the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center (NORC) for our webinar, The Ifs and Whats of Substance Use Disorder Basics: Substance Use Disorder (SUD) 101 on Wednesday, April 17, 2:00 – 3:30pm ET. NORC thanks the Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities (COE-NF) for offering this training.

A knowledge of substance use disorders and common behavioral symptoms are essential to understanding how to support residents with substance use disorders within the nursing home environment. This webinar will define substance use terminology, examine signs and symptoms, and review substance use screening tools that can be used in nursing facilities. The importance of using stigma-free language for providing person-centered care will also be discussed. 

Learning Objectives:

  • Distinguish between substance use, misuse, and substance use disorder.
  • Recognize the signs and symptoms of possible substance use.
  • Describe how recovery-oriented language can engage and support people with SUDs.
  • Identify the importance of conducting substance use screening as a part of the assessment process.

Speaker:

  • Diana Padilla, MCPC, CARC, CASAC-T, Research Project Manager, Technical Assistance - SBIRT/Equity & Inclusion, Division of Substance Use Disorders / New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Medical Center

Closed captioning will be available during the webinar. To enable closed captioning or download the live transcript after the webinar, select "Live Transcript" at the bottom of your screen during the webinar.

Register»

This is the second presentation by COE-NF for the Ombudsman program. Listen to the November 28, 2023 webinar on Resources for Supporting Nursing Facility Residents with Mental and/or Behavioral Health Needs on the NORC website here.

Certificates of Participation

To assist Ombudsman programs in meeting annual continuing education requirements, NORC will provide certificates of participation to all attendees that register and attend the webinar via Zoom for a minimum of 30 minutes. If you have any questions, please refer to the FAQs or email ombudcenter@theconsumervoice.org.

Webinar on LTCOP Volunteer Recruitment and Recognition

April 05, 2024        

Join your Long-Term Care Ombudsmen (LTCO) colleagues from across the country to learn how their programs are recruiting volunteers and how they plan to celebrate 2024 Volunteer Appreciation Week. Attendees will hear successful (and not so successful) recruitment efforts and walk away with tips and ideas for acquiring new volunteers. We will also be recognizing and thanking the network of over 4,000 people who serve as LTCO volunteers!

Speakers:

  • Beverley Laubert, National Ombudsman Program Coordinator, Administration for Community Living
  • Jeffrey Findlay, New Jersey State Ombudsman Program
  • Stephanie Wheeler and Alvin Ancheta, Alaska State Ombudsman Program
  • Greg Shelley and Melinda Schoeffield, Harris County Ombudsman Program, Houston, Texas
  • Mary Keniry, Catholic Charities Senior and Caregiver Support Services Ombudsman Program, Schenectady, NY

Closed captioning will be available during the webinar. To enable closed captioning or download the live transcript after the webinar, select "Live Transcript" at the bottom of your screen during the webinar.

Register »

Webinar on Resources for Supporting Residents with Mental and/or Behavioral Health Needs

November 28, 2023        

Join the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care (Consumer Voice) and the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center (NORC) for Resources for Supporting Residents with Mental and/or Behavioral Health Needs webinar on Tuesday, November 28, 2:00 – 3:00pm ET.

In recent years, changes in public policy and in living options have resulted in more residents with mental and/or behavioral health needs living in long-term care facilities. Long-term care facilities often lack the training and access to the support necessary to provide individualized care for residents with these needs. Join us to hear about a new free resource for nursing facilities, the Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities (COE-NF).

The COE-NF was established in September 2022 by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in collaboration with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). COE-NF leadership will share what they do, who they help, program goals, and how to connect the nursing facilities you visit with their resources.

Speakers:

  • Linda Kluge, Senior Executive Director, Quality & Strategic Alliances
  • Jacob Berelowitz, Program Manager, Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health in Nursing Facilities (COE-NF)

Register»

Technical Assistance (TA) Talk on the National Paralysis Resource Center

September 21, 2023        

TOPIC: An Introduction to the National Paralysis Resource Center
September 21, 2023 | 2:00 - 3:00pm ET

REGISTER

NORC provides daily in-depth technical assistance, consultation, information, and referral, for Ombudsman programs. To increase direct access to technical assistance (TA) and peer support, NORC is hosting quarterly live technical assistance dialogues. The TA Talks are also live streamed on the NORC Facebook page.

Join us to talk about the National Paralysis Resource Center. 

The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation National Paralysis Resource Center (NPRC) has provided free, comprehensive information and support to the paralysis community for over twenty years. This TA Talk will explore the many resources offered by the NPRC to empower people living with paralysis, their families, and caregivers to live independent, healthy, and fulfilling lives.

An in-depth overview of the NPRC’s programs and materials, including the Information Specialist Team, Peer & Family Support Program, Military & Veterans Program, Paralysis Resource Guide, and more, will be presented. Attendees will gain an understanding of how these resources can benefit people living with paralysis, their families, and caregivers along with how to access these vital supports.

Speakers:

  • Rebecca Sultzbaugh, Manager, Peer & Family Support Program, Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation
  • Emily Wolinsky, Director of Outreach & Education at the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation

Audience: State Ombudsmen and all Ombudsman program representatives (paid and volunteer).

Materials: If you missed the previous TA Talks you can view the recording and PowerPoint slides »

Certificates of Participation: To assist Ombudsman programs in meeting annual continuing education requirements, NORC will provide certificates of participation to those that register and attend the quarterly TA Talks live via Zoom. If you have any questions, please refer to the FAQs or email ombudcenter@theconsumervoice.org.

NOTE: Limited space is available for certificates. You must register and attend LIVE on Zoom for at least 30 minutes to receive a certificate of participation.

Register for the September 21 TA Talk »

Older Americans Month 2023: Aging Unbound

May 01, 2023 - May 31, 2023        

Every May, ACL leads the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month (OAM). In 2023, ACL has chosen the theme, Aging Unbound. With this theme, you have the opportunity to explore an array of aging experiences without being boxed in by expectations and stereotypes. 

ACL will highlight the positive aspects of growing older, why everyone has a role to play in combating ageism – and how we all benefit when older adults remain engaged, independent, and included in their communities.

Stay tuned for a poster, social media graphics, and more that you can use to celebrate OAM in your community. Don’t forget to follow #OlderAmericansMonth for the latest from ACL, and to see what others are planning!

Webinar on The Role of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program in Nursing Facility Closures

April 25, 2023 - April 25, 2023        

Each year, many nursing facilities across the country close their doors. Closures disrupt the lives of the residents living there and too often become chaotic in a variety of ways. The Long-Term Care Ombudsman program (LTCOP) can assist with ensuring that residents receive appropriate notice and that their rights are protected during the closure process. This webinar explored the role of the LTCOP, reviewed the federal requirements facilities and the state survey agencies must follow, and introduced a new resource. Participants heard from LTCOP representatives in Kentucky and Iowa.

Speakers: Amanda R. Hamilton, FIVCO District Long-Term Care Ombudsman, Ashland, KY; Pam Railsback, Iowa Local Long-Term Care Ombudsman, Des Moines, IA; Lori Smetanka, Executive Director, National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care; Carol Scott, Manager, LTC Ombudsman Program and Policy, National Ombudsman Resource Center

Technical Assistance (TA) Talk on Communication Tools

March 15, 2023        

TOPIC: Using Online Tools for Program Promotion and Volunteer Recruitment
March 15, 2023 | 3:00 - 4:00pm ET

REGISTER

NORC provides daily in-depth technical assistance, consultation, information, and referral, for Ombudsman programs. To increase direct access to technical assistance (TA) and peer support, NORC is hosting quarterly live technical assistance dialogues. The TA Talks are also live streamed on the NORC Facebook page.

Join us to talk about Using Online Tools for Program Promotion and Volunteer Recruitment. 

During this TA Talk, NORC will share ideas for free and low cost online communication tools that Ombudsman programs can use for program promotion and volunteer management.

We will also be joined by media experts, Kristin Hyde and Katie Hewitt, to answer follow-up questions from the January webinar, Communications and Media Relations to Raise Awareness of the Ombudsman ProgramPlease watch this webinar ahead of time and bring your questions for the speakers to the TA Talk.

Audience: State Ombudsmen and all Ombudsman program representatives (paid and volunteer).

If you missed the previous TA Talks you can view the recording and PowerPoint slides »

Certificates of Participation: To assist Ombudsman programs in meeting annual continuing education requirements, NORC will provide certificates of participation to those that register and attend the quarterly TA Talks live via Zoom. If you have any questions, please refer to the FAQs or email ombudcenter@theconsumervoice.org.

NOTE: Limited space is available for certificates. You must register and attend LIVE on Zoom for at least 30 minutes to receive a certificate of participation.

Register for the March 15 TA Talk »

Webinar on Ombudsman Program Communications and Media Relations

January 31, 2023        

REGISTER

Join the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center (NORC) for a webinar on Communications and Media Relations to Raise Awareness of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program on Tuesday, January 31 from 2:00 - 3:30 pm ET.

Media experts Kristin Hyde and Katie Hewett will provide an overview of media relations, offer tips on how to respond to media inquiries to elevate the awareness of the Ombudsman program, and discuss how to successfully use social media and digital communication tools to engage targeted audiences to attract more volunteers and gain support for the program.

Speakers: 

Kristin Hyde (she/her) has 30+ years experience in strategic communications and media relations for progressive policy advocacy campaigns, mission driven organizations and foundations. She is known for her skill in putting lived experience voices and compelling stories into the spotlight to achieve impact. https://percussionstrategic.com/
 

Katie Hewitt (she/her) has 18 years of experience integrating digital strategies with traditional to create social change. She focuses on legislative advocacy, nonprofit communications, training/mentoring, and social behavior change campaigns. https://percussionstrategic.com/
 
Closed captioning will be available during the webinar. To enable closed captioning or download the live transcript after the webinar, select "Live Transcript" at the bottom of your screen during the webinar.

Audience: This webinar is intended for State Long-Term Care Ombudsmen and program representatives.

Certificates of Participation: To assist Ombudsman programs in meeting annual continuing education requirements, NORC will provide certificates of participation to all attendees that register and attend the webinar via Zoom for a minimum of 30 minutes. If you have any questions, please refer to the FAQs or email ombudcenter@theconsumervoice.org.

Register»

Technical Assistance (TA) Talk on Family Councils

December 14, 2022        

TOPIC: Family Councils
December 14, 2022 | 3:00 - 4:00pm ET

NORC provides daily in-depth technical assistance, consultation, information, and referral, for Ombudsman programs. To increase direct access to technical assistance (TA) and peer support, NORC is hosting quarterly live technical assistance dialogues. The TA Talks are also live streamed on the NORC Facebook page.

Join us to talk about Family Councils.

Jocelyn Bogdan, Senior Program & Policy Specialist, Consumer Voice, will join us for this discussion. We will have ample time for discussion as we want to hear your successful practices or challenges in supporting Family Councils and respond to as many of your questions as possible. 

Audience: State Ombudsmen and all Ombudsman program representatives (paid and volunteer).

If you missed the previous TA Talks you can view the recording and PowerPoint slides »

Certificates of Participation
To assist Ombudsman programs in meeting annual continuing education requirements, NORC will provide certificates of participation to those that register and attend the quarterly TA Talks live via Zoom. If you have any questions, please refer to the FAQs or email ombudcenter@theconsumervoice.org.

NOTE: Limited space is available for certificates. You must register and attend LIVE on Zoom for at least 30 minutes to receive a certificate of participation.

Register for December 14 TA Talk »

We Have Unique Roles, But Often Support the Same Consumer: LTCOP and APS Collaboration

September 15, 2022 - September 15, 2022        

Join this webinar to learn how Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs (LTCOP) and Adult Protective Services (APS) can work together to better serve people living in long-term care facilities. Programs from three states will share how their collaboration enhanced staff and community partners’ knowledge about each program, provided training regarding sexual abuse and exploitation of long-term care residents, and assisted individuals involuntarily discharged from facilities.

Audience: This webinar is intended for Long-Term Care Ombudsman program representatives and Adult Protective Services (APS) staff.

Speakers: Amity Overall-Laib, Director, NORC; Maria Greene, NORC consultant; Andy Capehart, Senior Business Analyst/Subject Matter Expert, APS TARC; Jennifer Spoeri, Executive Director, NAPSA; Beverley Laubert, National Ombudsman Program Coordinator, Administration for Community Living; Sandra Jenkins, Alaska APS, Stephanie Wheeler, Alaska State Long-Term Care Ombudsman; Cheryl Hennen, Minnesota State Long-Term Care Ombudsman; and Bill Whited, Oklahoma State Long-Term Care Ombudsman.

View webinar materials»

Webinar - Voices for Equality: Advocating for LGBTQ+ Residents

August 11, 2022 - August 11, 2022        

While lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) residents face many of the same concerns as straight residents, there are, however, unique historical and cultural considerations when working with this often invisible population. With a mix of policy, education, and resources, Ombudsman program representatives and advocates can address their individual, community, and systemic needs. This webinar will equip attendees with an understanding of the challenges LGBTQ+ residents face, built familiarity with federal, state, and local policy, and walk away with resources on LGBTQ+ inclusion, such as the new Long-Term Care Equality Index (LEI), a national LGBTQ+ benchmarking tool.

Speakers:

Dan Stewart, MSG
Dan stewart is the Associate Director of the Aging Equality Project at the Human Rights Campaign Foundation. Dan serves as the HRCF for the Long-Term Care Equality Index. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Saint Lois University and Master of Science in Gerontology from the University of Missouri-St. Louis. He melds his experiences as a gerontologist, his former work as a researcher, and his years as a dedicated advocate to work towards equality for LGBTQ+ people across the age spectrum.

Sherrill Wayland, MSW
Sherrill Wayland is the Director of Special Initiatives at SAGE, directing the National Resource Center on LGBT Aging (NRC), supporting other initiatives such as the SAGE/HRC Foundation Long-Term Care Equality Index, SAGECare training and credentialing program and the Diverse Elders Coalition. Sherrill has been working with SAGE at the local and national level since 2008 and has over 25 years of professional experience in the fields of education, disability, aging, and LGBTQ+ advocacy.

Register»

TA Talk: Investigating Complaints Involving Allegations of Abuse

June 29, 2022 - June 29, 2022        

NORC provides daily in-depth technical assistance, consultation, information, and referral, for Ombudsman programs. To increase direct access to technical assistance (TA) and peer support, NORC is hosting quarterly live technical assistance dialogues. The TA Talks are also live streamed on the NORC Facebook page.

In recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD), join us to talk about the role of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program (LTCOP) in investigating complaints involving allegations of abuse, neglect, and/or exploitation.

Beverley Laubert, National Ombudsman Program Coordinator, Administration for Community Living (ACL), will open the discussion by reviewing pertinent federal requirements and guidance that explain the role of the LTCOP in investigating allegations of abuse. Dale Watson, South Carolina State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, and Jessica Winters, Regional Long-Term Care Ombudsman representative, South Carolina, will share a case example with local and state level advocacy and coordination with other entities such as Adult Protective Services (APS), state licensing and certification, Medicaid, and the Attorney General. There will be ample time for questions and discussion following the presentations.

Register »
 

Webinar - LTCOPs and Legal Services: Working Together to Protect Residents from Nursing Facility-Initiated Discharges

June 22, 2022 - June 22, 2022        

Webinar: Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs and Legal Services: Working Together to Protect Residents from Nursing Facility-Initiated Discharges

When: Wednesday, June 22, 2022 | 3:00 - 4:30pm ET

The National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center (NORC) and the National Center on Law & Elder Rights (NCLER) invite you to a webinar that will discuss the roles and responsibilities of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program (LTCOP) and legal services and how they can work together to protect rights of residents in nursing facilities. Specifically, presenters will discuss who can represent residents during discharge hearings and showcase examples of LTCOP and legal services collaboration in representing residents’ interest during appeal hearings. NORC will share a new resource for LTCOPs and highlight other key resources for LTCOPs and legal services.  

Audience: This webinar is open to all Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs and legal services providers.

Register »

June 15 is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD)

June 15, 2022        

Every year on June 15th, communities around the world join to commemorate World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD). Since its inception 16 years ago, WEAAD has provided an opportunity to promote awareness of—and critical actions from all over the world that addresses—abuse, neglect, and exploitation of older people. 

To help you observe WEAAD 2022, the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) has created a WEAAD toolkit which includes fact sheets, sample articles and proclamations, graphics, sample social media content, and more tips and tools.

Each year, NCEA compiles WEAAD events submitted from around the country and the world. Please let us know about your events by emailing ombudcenter@theconsumervoice.org.

Discussion on Treatment and Workplace Conditions for Direct Care Workers

May 24, 2022 - May 24, 2022        

Join your colleagues from across the country to share your observations related to workforce conditions in long-term care (LTC) settings and how it impacts the quality of life and care of residents with representatives from ADvancing States, the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center (NORC), and the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care (Consumer Voice). 

ADvancing States will share information from their recent work regarding workplace conditions, specifically about the treatment of direct care workers (DCWs) in long-term care (LTC) settings. As will be discussed, there is a broader trend of increased incidents of workplace violence in the health care sector, especially for hospitals and LTC facility settings. Concurrently, there is a significant workforce shortage for DCWs and other support professionals. We know that pay and benefits are an important component of this, but that is likely not the whole story. Workplace treatment and recruiting and retention of these workers may be connected.

Directly related to the workforce issues, Consumer Voice staff will share information regarding the opportunity to comment in response to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) request for information about the implementation of a minimum staffing standard in nursing homes. 

Following these presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to share successes and challenges they have observed in LTC settings.

Closed captioning will be available during the webinar. To enable closed captioning or download the live transcript after the webinar, select "Live Transcript" at the bottom of your screen during the webinar.

Audience: State Ombudsmen and program representatives are encouraged to attend.

Register »

Older Americans Month May 2022: Age My Way

May 01, 2022 - May 31, 2022        

Every May, ACL leads the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month (OAM). In 2022, ACL will be focusing on aging in place – how older adults can plan to stay in their homes and live independently in their communities for as long as possible. The 2022 theme is Age My Way, an opportunity for all of us to explore the many ways older adults can remain in and be involved with their communities.

ACL is going to be discussing how planning, participation, accessibility, and making connections all play a role in aging in place – emphasizing that what each person needs and prefers is unique.

The 2022 logos are available now. Stay tuned for a poster, social media graphics, and more that you can use to celebrate OAM in your community. Don’t forget to follow #OlderAmericansMonth for the latest from ACL, and to see what others are planning!

Webinar - Recognizing the Importance of Volunteers

April 21, 2022 - April 21, 2022        

REGISTER

Join us to learn about volunteer representative recruitment and retention. Volunteer representatives will discuss why they stay with the program and Ombudsman programs will share state and local level examples of successful recruitment and retention activities. This information may assist programs in shaping their recruitment messages. NORC will review highlights from the Process Evaluation and Special Studies Related to the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program about working with volunteers (NORC Chicago Research Brief). This webinar occurs during the 2022 National Volunteer Week, "Shining a Light on the People and Causes That Inspire Us to Serve."

Speakers: 

  • Washington Long-Term Care Ombudsman program: Patricia Hunter, Washington State Ombudsman; Kristin Hyde, Communications Consultant; and Pamela Williams, King County Regional Long-Term Care Ombudsman
  • California Long-Term Care Ombudsman program: Susan Bussean, Program Manager, Fresno-Madera LTCOP
  • Volunteers: Kathy Eckert, Pennsylvania Ombudsman program volunteer, Pike County, PA; Brenda Milam, Sr. Certified Ombudsman Representative volunteer, Metro Atlanta Counties, GA

Audience: All Ombudsman programs

REGISTER»

Volunteer Appreciation Week: April 17-23, 2022

April 17, 2022 - April 23, 2022        

National Volunteer Week, April 17-23, 2022 is an opportunity to recognize the impact of volunteer service and the power of volunteers to tackle society’s greatest challenges, to build stronger communities and be a force that transforms the world. Each year, we shine a light on the people and causes that inspire us to serve, recognizing and thanking volunteers who lend their time, talent and voice to make a difference in their communities. The LTCOP could not be its best without the volunteers who help carry out the mission of advocating for long-term care residents.

Thank your volunteers and recognize their work publicly by sending NORC brief messages of appreciation for their dedicated advocacy (e.g., examples of their advocacy, years of service, photos). We will post your message on our website and highlight the submissions on social media. Email your submissions to ombudcenter@theconsumervoice.org.

Learn more on the Points of Light website.

Quarterly Technical Assistance (TA) Talks - Resident Councils

March 30, 2022 - March 30, 2022        


NORC provides daily in-depth technical assistance, consultation, information, and referral, for Ombudsman programs. To increase direct access to technical assistance (TA) and peer support, NORC is hosting quarterly live technical assistance dialogues. The TA Talks are also live streamed on the NORC Facebook page.

On March 30, at 3:00 pm ET the TA Talk will focus on resident councils. To help shape our discussion about resident councils, we encourage you to send your questions to ombudcenter@theconsumervoice.org.

Each TA Talk focuses on one topic. To open the discussion, NORC staff, subject matter experts, or your peers will briefly provide information and/or highlight resources then attendees will have ample time to seek technical assistance and ask questions. Attendees are encouraged to share their expertise and experiences to provide peer-to-peer support and learn from each other. This TA talk will focus on how to start or promote more resident council participation.

Speakers will include Stephanie Wheeler, Alaska State Ombudsman; Patty Ducayet, Texas State Ombudsman; and Melissa Tye Whitaker, Managing Local Ombudsman, Amarillo, Texas.

NOTE: Limited space is available. You must register and attend LIVE on Zoom for the full hour to receive a certificate of participation.

Register »

Money Mule Scams: Tips for Prevention, Identification, and Trauma-Informed Assistance

March 10, 2022        

Webinar: Money Mule Scams: Tips for Prevention, Identification, and Trauma-Informed Assistance

When: Thursday, March 10, 2022 | 2:00-3:00 pm ET

Attendees will learn the basics about money mule scams, including examples of these scams, tips for prevention and identification, how individuals can seek help, and available consumer education materials.

The Department of Justice (DOJ) will provide an overview of these scams and share their work to identify and address money mule activities. The National Center on Law and Elder Rights (NCLER) and Indiana Legal Services will share tips for how elder justice advocates can assist individuals with a trauma-informed approach and examples of assistance provided to older adults impacted by this scam.

Additionally, attendees will hear about the Administration for Community Living (ACL) funded Elder Justice Resource Centers hosting this webinar, the aging network professionals they support, and how to contact them for applicable assistance.

Speakers: Hilary Dalin, Director, Office of Elder Justice and Adult Protective Services, ACL; Jacqueline Blaesi-Freed, Assistant Director, Consumer Protection Branch, United States Department of Justice; Sarah Galvan, Directing Attorney, Elder Rights, National Center on Law and Elder Rights, Justice in Aging; Jane Handley, Staff Attorney, LAVA Project (Legal Assistance to Victimized Adults), Indiana Legal Services

Register »
 

Webinar Are You Ready? Ombudsman Program Emergency Preparedness and Response

February 23, 2022        

Webinar: Are You Ready? Ombudsman Program Emergency Preparedness and Response
When: Wednesday, February 23, 2022 | 3:00 - 4:30 pm ET

Participants will learn how Ombudsman programs may better serve residents of long-term care facilities by being prepared for emergencies and how to best respond to them. Beverley Laubert, National Ombudsman Program Coordinator, Administration for Community Living, will share the federal perspective regarding the role of Ombudsman programs in emergency preparedness and response and two states will discuss recent disasters and their practices before and after the disasters. Also, NORC will share a new training resource for basic Emergency Preparedness and guidance for the Ombudsman program’s role in assisting residents. Ombudsman programs may customize this new resource with specific state and/or local information and use it during initial certification training or annual in-service (continuing education) training.

Audience: This webinar is intended for State Ombudsmen and Ombudsman program representatives (paid or volunteer).

Speakers: Beverley Laubert, National Ombudsman Program Coordinator, Administration for Community Living (ACL); Amity Overall-Laib, Director, NORC; Sherry Culp, Kentucky State Ombudsman; Leah McMahon, Colorado State Ombudsman; Erica Corson, Regional Ombudsman, Colorado; and Maria Greene, NORC Consultant.

Register »

Webinar on the new Initial Certification Training Curriculum for Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs

January 26, 2022        

NORC is pleased to launch the new Initial Certification Training Curriculum for Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs!

Do you provide training at the state or local level? If so, this webinar is for you! Join the webinar on Wednesday, January 26 from 3:00 - 4:00 pm ET to learn about the new training materials which include:

  • Curriculum Overview
  • Preparation Checklist and Training Tips
  • Trainer Guide
  • Trainee Manual
  • PowerPoints
  • Supporting Materials (e.g., Glossary of Key Words, List of Training Video URLs)

The Initial Certification Training Curriculum for Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs is a basic curriculum for initial certification training based on the requirements included in the Administration for Community Living (ACL) Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program Training Standards. In developing the curriculum, the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Resource Center (NORC) worked with subject matter experts and Ombudsmen and Ombudsman program representatives (paid and volunteer). Join the webinar to hear more about the development process and materials.

Audience: This webinar is intended for State Ombudsmen and those that provide training for paid or volunteer Ombudsman program representatives.

Speakers: Amity Overall-Laib, Director, National Ombudsman Resource Center; and Carol Scott, Ombudsman Program Specialist, National Ombudsman Resource Center

Register »

Quarterly Technical Assistance (TA) Talks

December 15, 2021 - December 15, 2021        

NORC provides daily in-depth technical assistance, consultation, information, and referral, for Ombudsman programs. To increase direct access to technical assistance (TA) and peer support, NORC will host quarterly live technical assistance dialogues.

To assist Ombudsman programs in meeting annual continuing education requirements, NORC will provide certificates of participation to those that register and attend the quarterly TA Talks via Zoom. The TA Talks will also be livestreamed on the NORC Facebook page and the recordings and materials will be shared with the network and posted on our website.

Each TA Talk will focus on one topic. To open the discussion, NORC staff, subject matter experts, or your peers will briefly provide information and/or highlight resources then attendees will have ample time to seek technical assistance and ask questions. Attendees are encouraged to share their expertise and experiences to provide peer-to-peer support and learn from each other.

Register for the TA Talk on December 15, 3:00 – 4:00 ET on Volunteer Management. To help shape our discussion we encourage you to start sending your questions to ombudcenter@theconsumervoice.org now.

NOTE: Limited space is available. You must register and attend LIVE on Zoom for the full hour to receive a certificate of participation.

Register »

NORC Webinar - Protecting Residents from Inappropriate Evictions in Residential Care Communities

October 27, 2021        

Register for the NORC webinar - Protecting Residents from Inappropriate Evictions in Residential Care Communities

October 27, 2021 | 3:00 - 4:30 pm ET

Join this webinar to learn about federal and state legal tools and advocacy strategies to defend residents of residential care communities (RCCs) from inappropriate evictions.

Eric Carlson of Justice in Aging will provide an overview of common state laws that may be utilized for eviction protection and explain how the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Rule requires protections against inappropriate eviction for residents living in residential settings funded by Medicaid HCBS programs (e.g., RCCs).

Attendees will also hear about state and local advocacy strategies to address evictions of residents in RCCs. Amanda Scott, Idaho State Long-Term Care Ombudsman, and Molly Davies, Vice President of Elder Abuse Prevention and Ombudsman Services, WISE & Healthy Aging, California Long-Term Care Ombudsman program, will share their work.

REGISTER