The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is federally funded under Title Ill and Title VII of the OAA and other federal, state and local sources. Title VII of the Older Americans Act (OAA) requires each state to appoint a legal assistance developer (LAD).

Persons with disabilities receiving or in need of long-term services and supports have available nationally at least two advocacy organizations – Protection and Advocacy (P&A) and the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program (LTCOP).

Facility size and location vary significantly, and Ombudsman program representatives (representatives) often visit facilities alone and sometimes with no prior knowledge of the
facility. Although most long-term care facilities are safe there may be circumstances where the Ombudsman program needs to take precautions when visiting (e.g., visits to unfamiliar facilities or areas, facilities with limited regulatory oversight). This resource was created to assist Ombudsman programs in discussing personal safety and minimizing risk during visits.

This postcard is available in three versions and can be used by long-term care Ombudsman programs or long-term care facilities to share information about the Ombudsman program. Programs can personalize the postcards and/or print and share them.

This resource walks readers through what the long-term care ombudsman program is, what the Ombudsman program does and does not do, links to information on residents’ rights, and some helpful FAQs.

This infographic provides a brief overview of the work Ombudsman programs and the impact programs have around the nation. This infographic can be used for volunteer recruitment or program promotion.

This Primer is intended to support State Agency Directors to understand the unique role of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program.