Abuse and neglect in nursing homes are heartbreaking realities that too many Illinois families face. These violations can leave residents and their families feeling powerless and unsure about what to do.
If you or a loved one has experienced abuse or neglect in an Illinois nursing home, one option is to contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP). This state-run advocacy program is designed to protect the rights and well-being of residents in long-term care facilities, including nursing homes, assisted living centers, and supportive living facilities.
What is the Illinois Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program?
Established under the federal Older Americans Act and the Illinois Act on the Aging, the LTCOP serves as a resident-directed advocacy service. Ombudsmen are trained professionals who regularly visit long-term care facilities to monitor conditions, address complaints, and advocate for residents’ rights. Their primary goal is to improve the quality of life and care for residents by resolving issues and promoting systemic changes within the long-term care system.
How can an ombudsman help nursing home abuse victims?
In response to concerns raised by residents and their families, an ombudsman can:
- Investigate complaints: Ombudsmen are authorized to receive and investigate complaints from residents, their families, or concerned individuals. They work to resolve issues related to abuse, neglect, poor care, and violations of residents’ rights. All investigations are conducted confidentially, and the ombudsman will not disclose any information without the resident’s consent.
- Advocate for residents’ rights: Ombudsmen educate residents about their rights and empower them to speak up about their care. They also work with facility staff to ensure that residents’ rights are respected and upheld.
- Facilitate communication: In cases where residents may feel intimidated or fear retaliation, ombudsmen can act as intermediaries between residents and facility staff to address concerns and find resolutions.
- Provide information and resources: Ombudsmen offer information about long-term care options, services, and supports available in the community. They can guide residents and families through the process of reporting abuse and understanding their legal rights.
When to contact an ombudsman
You can reach out to an ombudsman if you or a loved one are concerned about:
- Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
- Neglect or inadequate care
- A violation of residents’ rights
- Unexplained injuries or sudden changes in behavior
- The quality of care or living conditions
Ombudsman services are free and available to residents of long-term care facilities, their families, and the community. To find the regional ombudsman serving your area, contact the Illinois Department on Aging’s Senior Helpline at 1-800-252-8966 or visit their website.
Talk to an experienced Illinois nursing home abuse lawyer
While ombudsmen play an important role in addressing and resolving issues within long-term care facilities, many situations require legal intervention. If you or a loved one has suffered harm due to abuse or neglect in a nursing home, it’s important to consult an experienced attorney. A skilled lawyer can help you understand your legal options, gather evidence, and pursue compensation for damages.
At Ferrell Young, LLC, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of nursing home residents in Chicago and throughout Illinois.
Our legal team has decades of combined legal experience and offers a personalized approach. Learn more about how we can help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
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