Insights from The Orlando Senior Help Desk Ombudsman services in long-term care and the role of the Orlando Senior Help Desk

In the United States, there are approximately 1,500 ombudsmen working in long-term care facilities, supported by a network of nearly 3,500 volunteers. This network is part of a federal program established in the 1970s to advocate for older adults and individuals with disabilities who reside in nursing homes, assisted living communities, and other residential care settings.

Ombudsmen serve as resident advocates, ensuring that the rights of residents are protected and that they receive quality care. Their work is vital in maintaining high standards of care, as they respond to issues such as ignored call lights, incorrect medication administration, the formation of pressure ulcers due to lack of movement, and failure to provide essential personal care like trimming toenails, brushing teeth, or changing soiled briefs.

Ombudsmen are committed to ensuring that residents are well cared for, and they also provide valuable information on available services, answer questions, and resolve complaints.

When facilities are forced to close or threaten to eject residents, ombudsmen help to find alternative living arrangements and ensure residents are not left without support. The work of ombudsmen is crucial, but it is often limited by staffing shortages. Federal funding for the nationwide ombudsman program was only $22 million in 2024, which is far below the recommended funding levels needed to ensure effective oversight and adequate staffing. As a result, many states rely on temporary COVID-related funding to supplement these services, but the demand for ombudsmen remains high.

In addition to the important work of ombudsmen, residents and their families in the Orlando area can also benefit from the services offered by the Orlando Senior Help Desk. This valuable resource provides direct assistance and guidance for seniors and their families in navigating the complexities of long-term care options, including finding appropriate facilities and addressing issues that arise.

The Orlando Senior Help Desk, a program of Jewish Pavilion Senior Services, offers another level of support, making sure that seniors in the area have access to the resources they need to ensure their well-being and safety. The Help Desk can be reached at OrlandoSeniorHelpDesk.org or by calling 407-678-9363.

While the shortage of ombudsmen is a pressing issue across the nation, local services like the Orlando Senior Help Desk help bridge the gap by offering additional advocacy and support for seniors. These services work in tandem with ombudsmen to protect residents’ rights and improve the quality of care in long-term care facilities.

To learn more about the way Jewish Pavilion Senior Services brings joy and Jewish culture to hundreds of residents across 50 senior-living communities in Central Florida, visit JewishPavilion.org.