Volunteers wanted: Be an ombudsman for long-term care

Minnesota’s State Ombudsman for Long-Term Care is calling for more volunteers, especially in northeast Minnesota. With training and direction from the state office, volunteers champion the office’s mission to empower, educate and advocate for the rights of Minnesotans receiving long-term care services and support.

The state is looking for volunteers who are passionate about serving people in long-term care.

There are more than 2,500 nursing homes and assisted living facilities across Minnesota. Fewer than 50 of those facilities currently have certified volunteers. The difference a volunteer makes in the lives of long-term care residents is immeasurable.

Certified volunteers assist a paid regional ombudsman to investigate and advocate for residents in nursing homes and assisted living settings. Residents are often unable, uncomfortable or, in some cases, fearful to advocate for themselves. With a resident’s consent, volunteers assist regional ombudsmen responding to residents’ concerns through complaint investigations.

Visit https://mn.gov/ooltc/volunteerwithus for more.