Certified ombudsman training planned

Training to become a Certified Ombudsman Volunteer will begin in mid-March in the Bend area. These volunteers advocate for seniors who are living in long-term care facilities and are trained to educate, investigate, and advocate for the rights of the resident and learn to be a “problem solver.”

Training includes learning about resident rights, the aging process, communication skills, recognizing and reporting neglect and/or abuse, and rules and regulations for facilities in long-term care.

In order to be accepted into the five-day training, those wishing to apply should do so no later than March 6, 2014. Applications can be submitted electronically or by mail.

The Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman is an independent ‘watchdog’ agency of the State of Oregon, dedicated to protecting the rights, safety and dignity of the residents of nursing homes, residential care facilities, assisted living facilities and adult foster care homes. To report a concern about a long-term care facility, call 1-800-522-2602, visit www.oregon.gov/LTCO or email us at LTCO.contact@ltco.state.or.us.

For more information or to apply visit www.oregon.gov/LTCO to download an application or contact Nancy Allen at 541-312-2488 or Elly Styskel at 541-389-0245.