Navigating long-term care for your loved ones can be complex. Ensuring their rights and well-being within these facilities is paramount. In Northern Virginia, the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program stands as a vital resource, dedicated to advocating for residents in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and other adult care homes. This program serves as a voice for residents, working to resolve complaints and improve the quality of care within Arlington, Fairfax, and Loudoun counties, as well as the cities of Alexandria, Fairfax, and Falls Church.
What is a Long-Term Care Ombudsman?
A Long-Term Care Ombudsman is a designated advocate for residents of long-term care facilities. Authorized under the Older Americans Act, Ombudsmen are independent and impartial individuals who work to protect resident rights, ensure quality of care, and resolve complaints. They act as a confidential resource for residents and their families, investigating concerns and advocating for fair resolutions. Their primary goal is to enhance the lives of those living in long-term care by empowering them and ensuring their voices are heard.
Services Offered by the Northern Virginia Program
The Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program offers a range of free and confidential services to residents and their families, including:
- Complaint Resolution: Investigating and resolving complaints related to quality of care, resident rights, and facility practices.
- Information and Referral: Providing information about long-term care options, resident rights, and community resources.
- Advocacy: Representing residents’ interests and advocating for their needs with facility staff and administration.
- Education: Educating residents, families, and facility staff about resident rights and long-term care issues.
- Systemic Advocacy: Working to improve the long-term care system through policy recommendations and community education.
- Witnessing Documents: Serving as a witness for residents signing advance directives or other legal documents, ensuring their wishes are properly documented.
Who We Serve in Northern Virginia
The Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program specifically serves residents within:
- Counties: Arlington, Fairfax, and Loudoun
- Cities: Alexandria, Fairfax, and Falls Church
This focused service area ensures that residents in these communities have dedicated advocates readily available to address their concerns and promote their well-being. If you or a loved one resides in these areas and is receiving long-term care, the Northern Virginia Ombudsman Program is your local resource.
Contact the Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
For assistance or more information, please reach out to the Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program directly:
Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
12011 Government Center Pkwy., Ste. 708
Fairfax, Virginia 22035 – 1104
Contact Information:
- Program Director: Camden Doran
- Ombudsmen: Donna Lee, Kristen Lucia, Liz Rogers, Carl Varner, Katie Patterson
- Ombudsman Volunteer Coordinator: Claire Yeomans
- Phone: 703-324-5861
- FAX: 703-653-1796
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/ltcombudsman
Don’t hesitate to contact the program if you have concerns about the care or rights of a long-term care resident in Northern Virginia. Your call is confidential, and the Ombudsman Program is there to help.
Choosing Quality Long-Term Care in Northern Virginia
Selecting the right long-term care facility is a crucial decision. Beyond the Ombudsman Program, consider these factors when evaluating facilities in Northern Virginia:
- Location and Accessibility: Choose a facility conveniently located for family visits.
- Services Offered: Ensure the facility provides the specific care services needed.
- Facility Reputation and Ratings: Research online reviews and official ratings.
- Staff-to-Resident Ratio: Inquire about staffing levels to ensure adequate care.
- Facility Environment: Visit the facility to assess cleanliness and atmosphere.
- Resident and Family Feedback: If possible, speak with current residents and families.
The Northern Virginia Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is an invaluable partner in ensuring quality care and resident rights. By understanding your rights and utilizing available resources, you can advocate for the best possible long-term care experience for yourself or your loved ones in Northern Virginia.
