Southeast Missouri Area Agency on Aging

Long Term Care Ombudsman Program

Jan McFerron, LTCOP Director
Saundra O'Loughlin, LTCOP Assistant

Volunteer Appreciation Banquet

Ombudsman is a Swedish word which means "One who speaks on behalf of another."

Residents in nursing homes have rights mandated by federal and state law. The Ombudsman Program was established by the Older American's Act to be a "voice" for residents in long term care facilities, assuring that resident rights are upheld. The Ombudsman Program seeks to advocate for individual residents as well as inform the public regarding nursing home issues.

The Southeast Missouri Long Term Care Ombudsman Program currently seeks volunteers throughout the 18 county region. Volunteer Ombudsmen serve residents of nursing homes and residential care facilities providing support and assistance with any problems or complaints. Following screening and training, the volunteer is assigned to a facility. The Ombudsman receives orientation to the facility and its procedures prior to making regular contact with the residents. While most volunteers become Ombudsman that visit residents, there are other volunteer positions available in the program.

To take advantage of the volunteer opportunities or to learn more about the Ombudsman Program, please contact Jan McFerron, Long Term Care Ombudsman Program Director, at 573-335-3331 or 1-800-392-8771 if you are outside the Cape Girardeau calling area.