Nursing Home Ombudsman Program

WMEC’s dedicated Ombudsman volunteers work to advocate for the rights and well-being of nursing home residents. We understand that residing in a nursing home can be a significant life transition, and we are committed to ensuring that the voices of our elderly community members are heard and their concerns addressed.

Our program focuses on investigating and resolving complaints raised by nursing home residents, providing them with the support they need to live with dignity in a safe environment. We believe that every resident has the right to receive quality care, be treated with respect, and have their preferences and choices honored.

To accomplish our mission, our compassionate and trained volunteers visit nursing homes on a weekly basis. These visits allow us to build relationships with the residents, listen to their concerns, and provide them with emotional support. By spending time with the individuals in nursing homes, our volunteers gain invaluable insight into their unique needs and challenges, empowering us to be effective advocates.

Our volunteers are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex nursing home environment and address the various issues that may arise.  Each WMEC Ombudsman volunteer undergoes comprehensive training from the Massachusetts State Long Term Care Ombudsman Program. From concerns regarding the quality of care to issues with staff interactions, we work diligently to investigate complaints thoroughly and collaborate with all parties involved to find appropriate resolutions.

At WestMass ElderCare, we firmly believe in the power of advocacy to bring about positive change. By working closely with residents, their families, nursing home staff, and regulatory agencies, we aim to foster an environment that promotes resident rights, dignity, and overall well-being.

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of nursing home residents and are interested in becoming a volunteer, we invite you to join our team. Together, we can ensure that the rights of our elderly community members are protected, and they are provided with the highest quality of care and support they deserve.