Carson City - The State of Nevada's Aging and Disability Services Division has added a volunteer component to its Long Term Care Ombudsman Program and is looking for people interested to participate in Elko, Battle Mountain, and Winnemucca. Volunteers will serve as advocates for residents over the age of 60 living in skilled nursing and assisted living facilities.
According to the 2010 US Census, baby boomers in Nevada who are 65 and older have increased since 2000 by 48 percent, compared to a 15 percent increase nationwide. With this increase in the elder population comes an increase to the population of long-term care residents. The Long-Term Care Ombudsman program's mission is to advocate for residents over the age of 60 living in long-term care facilities. Volunteers will help to ensure that residents are treated with dignity and respect and have good quality of life and care.
Volunteers with the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program will promote the resident's Bill of Rights, empower residents, and help to resolve complaints. Volunteers will receive classroom and field training along with continuing support to assist residents and their families with concerns and with navigating the long-term care system. Volunteers are advocates and the voice for residents who cannot speak for themselves or who request assistance and advocacy.
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman program is looking for volunteers with a sincere interest in seniors who have strong communication skills. Interested parties can contact Barbara "BJ" Koehlke by phone at (775) 738-1966.
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