New York State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
The New York State Office for the Aging has contracted with ARCNENY to establish and administer a Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP).

What is an Ombudsman? "Ombudsman" is of Swedish origin, and means "citizen representative" or "one who speaks on behalf of others". Mandated under the Older Americans Act of 1975, and amended in 2000, a Long Term Care Ombudsman works on behalf of a resident of a nursing home or adult care facility to resolve complaints. In many cases, these residents have little or no contact with the outside world and feel that they lack control over the quality of their own lives. They may need help addressing problems because they are unaware of their rights, unaware of what the facility is required to do on their behalf by law, or are unable to independently work through the complexities of a complaint process. Often, the resident just needs someone to listen and care while advocating for an improvement.

The three counties that the LTCOP supports have over 50 nursing homes and facilities.

Do you need help?
If you or a family member think you could benefit from the assistance of an Ombudsman, contact Edie Sennett, Program Coordinator, at (518) 458-8111 ext. 3006 or send an e-mail to sennett@redcrossneny.org.

Interested in volunteering?
Volunteers make a commitment of two-to-four hours a week to hear concerns from many sources including residents, families, friends and personnel, and get satisfaction from helping some our most frail and vulnerable citizens. Contact Edie Sennett, Program Coordinator at (518) 458-8111 ext. 3006 or send an e-mail to sennett@redcrossneny.org.

Family Caregiving Program
This related American Red Cross program is designed to help families who have taken on the responsibility and challenges of caring for a loved one at home. The program consists of nine topic-based modules: Home Safety, General Caregiving Skills, Positioning and Helping Your Loved One Move, Assisting with Personal Care, Healthy Eating, Caring for the Caregiver, Legal and Financial Issues, Caring for a Loved One with Alzheimer´s Disease or Dementia and Caring for a Loved One with HIV/AIDS. Each module is approximately one hour in length and is designed to enhance participants skills, reduce stress and build confidence.

Group training can be offered at an organization or agency location or individuals from an organization can become trained to teach the program.