50+ Lifestyles

Ombudsman

By Alyssa Dominacki
Alternatives for the Older Adult
Business Development Coordinator

“There is no greater advocate for the most vulnerable people in society”

It is very common for individuals who hear the word Ombudsman to be confused with its meaning. An Ombudsman is a licensed professional who advocates for individuals residing under the roof of facilities. Facilities can be assisted livings, supported livings, nursing homes, etc. The word “Ombudsman” itself is a Swedish word meaning citizens representative.

These professionals can be a highly beneficial resource for individuals who may have concerns with their care in facilities. Concerned loved ones of individuals in facilities may also utilize Ombudsmen by giving them a call if they are concerned about a loved one.

Examples of concerns this program can assist with are: concerns with the food served, the loss of personal belongings, concerns or questions with their rights, concerns with staff, concerns with processes/procedures of the facilities, among many others.

But when is the right time to contact an Ombudsman? Alternatives’ Regional Ombudsman, Jennifer Glackin informed us, “When you or your family has attempted to express a concern with no resolve, this is when we can step in and help with the
situation.”

Alternatives (For the Older Adult) is proud to staff seven highly educated and trained Ombudsmen to respond to and assist with concerns of residents located within the 16 counties our Ombudsman program covers in the state of Illinois. These counties include: Calhoun, Pike, Brown, Adams, Schuyler, Hancock, McDonough, Henderson, Warren, Mercer, Rock Island, Knox, Henry, Bureau, Putnam, and LaSalle.

The Illinois Department on Aging has designated professionals throughout the state of Illinois to advocate for its
residents. It is important to explore who your local Ombudsman is. With one simple call, you can be in touch with a professional in your area.

Though this program may be small and often unheard of, it is critically important for the public to be aware of and
educated about. “When people are unaware of our program, their level of expectation can drop when small requests are continuously ignored. We want to make sure residents in all facilities can be completely comfortable and happy,” said Glackin.

The Ombudsman program is a completely free service, designated by the Illinois Department on Aging. This program is also 100% confidential and resident directed. For more details, please do not hesitate to reach out to one of Alternatives’ Ombudsmen at 1-800-798-0988 today!

Alyssa Dominacki is Business Development Coordinator at Alternatives for the Older Adult. She can be reached at (309) 277-0167 or ADominack@alternativesforyou.org.