By Jessica Morrow

In a quiet nursing home dining room, a resident leans in to share a concern. It may be about the meals, a medical need, or simply wanting a say in daily life. Thanks to Ohio’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, that voice doesn’t go unheard.

The Ohio Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is a free resource that advocates for individuals living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Ombudsman representatives — both staff and trained volunteers — visit care settings, listen to concerns, and help resolve issues about quality of care, resident rights and daily living.

Their mission is to ensure that older Ohioans are treated with dignity and respect, while empowering residents and families to make informed choices about their care. Residents don’t lose their rights when they move into long-term care. They still have the right to speak up, make choices and be treated with respect.

October is Residents’ Rights Month, a reminder that people in nursing homes and assisted living facilities still have the right to dignity, choice and respect.

“This year’s theme for Residents’ Rights Month, ‘Stand with Me,’ is a reminder that when residents speak up, our whole community benefits by listening, supporting and encouraging their voices,” said Jamie Davis, Region 6 program director.

Ombudsmen, both staff and volunteers, visit facilities, listen to residents and work to resolve problems. Their presence ensures that concerns are addressed quickly and fairly. For residents, that friendly face and listening ear can make all the difference.

A big part of the program’s success comes from volunteers. Volunteer Ombudsman Associates are often local community members who step up to spend time with residents. They build relationships, advocate for better care and provide reassurance that someone is looking out for them. Training and support are provided, but what matters most is a compassionate heart.

This October, the Ombudsman Program is calling on more Ohioans to get involved. Volunteering is a simple yet powerful way to give back, ensuring that seniors in long-term care have both care and a voice.

“Our volunteers bring comfort, connection and advocacy to residents,” Davis said. “It’s about building relationships, empowerment and standing alongside residents to make sure their rights are honored.”

Because in every nursing home and assisted living facility, what residents want most is to be heard — and that begins with someone willing to listen.

To become a volunteer or learn more about the program, visit stepup.ohio.gov.