UT-Houston Ombudsman Program
Help Make a Difference in the Lives of Local Seniors in Care Facilities
HOUSTON – (Sept. 19, 2006) – More than 1.5 million elderly Americans live in care facilities, largely dependent on nursing home employees for their daily well-being.
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program of The University of Texas School of Nursing at Houston’s Center on Aging is dedicated to helping senior citizens who live in nursing homes, their families and nursing home workers achieve the best possible quality of life for long-term care residents.
After completing training and being certified by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability, a volunteer ombudsman is assigned to one nursing or assisted living facility. The ombudsman then visits the site and creates relationships with residents, as well as with their families and the employees of the facility. The ombudsman helps residents communicate problems to staff and seek fair solutions.
Training classes begin Sept. 23, with additional enrollment opportunities to follow.
“Volunteers who advocate for long-term care residents serve as the voice for those who are unable or unwilling to speak for themselves – ombudsmen care for those who first cared for us,” said program manager Diane Persson, Ph.D.
Long-term care residents who are especially in need of advocates are those who have no family, are under county guardianship, or are in hospice care.
The Baytown, LaPorte, Pasadena, Webster, Deer Park, Hobby Airport, Jacinto City, Clear Lake, Tomball, Humble, Katy, Spring Branch, and North and Northwest Houston areas all urgently need ombudsmen.
To find out more about joining the program, please call 713-500-9931.