Food for the Soul
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2006-06-29 12:34:33.832450-04:00
The dictionary definition of an ombudsman sounds cold and impersonal. However, in the case of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP) the aggrieved parties include the most vulnerable citizens in our community who may not be able to advocate for themselves. It is here that the human and personal elements play an important role.
AARP member Robert Vu from Kent works full time as a quality control director for a Seattle- based company. He began volunteering with the LTCOP in February of this year, and has found the experience both enlightening and rewarding.
"At work I focus on solving business problems—that's what I get paid for," says Vu. "As a volunteer ombudsman, a smile on a resident's face, an appreciative look in their eyes, or a warm gentle squeeze of the hand is payment enough. No money can buy that," he says. "A paycheck puts food on the table - volunteering feeds my soul."
Vu is among the over 500 volunteer ombudsmen in the state who are trained and certified to advocate for residents in long-term care facilities such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities or adult family homes. Ombudsmen assist residents and their families in achieving the highest level and quality of care.
There are 14 regional ombudsman programs in Washington under the direction of a state ombudsman. Volunteer ombudsmen work to resolve issues of resident care, residential rights, family matters and finances. They take the time to get to know residents personally, and help them find answers to their questions and concerns.
A small paid staff trains and supports the volunteers who provide the actual contact with residents of long-term care facilities. Volunteers must complete 32 hours of training on all aspects of long-term care and are certified by the state. They agree to devote four hours per week to their assigned facilities.
In addition to providing an opportunity for public service and personal satisfaction, volunteers receive a comprehensive education in long-term care that may prove invaluable to family or friends. "Growing up in an Asian culture I learned to respect and appreciate the wisdom of the elderly," said Vu. "Spending time with them keeps me connected with the past, the present and the future. My parents are growing older, and the Ombudsman Program has helped me prepare mentally and emotionally to provide the assistance they will need."
Other Resources
- Long-term Care Consumer Advocacy
Find more information online or call 1-800-562-6028
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