Ombudsmen volunteers sought to help seniors

By: SARAH WILKINS - Staff Writer | Tuesday, September 11, 2007 12:42 AM PDT ∞

NORTH COUNTY -- The county office of Aging and Independence Services is seeking long-term care ombudsmen volunteers to serve as advocates for residents of senior care facilities throughout North County, authorities said.

According to the office, ombudsmen volunteers visit residential care and skilled nursing facilities on a weekly basis and are available to listen to and investigate residents' concerns, which vary from financial problems to nutrition, abuse and other care issues. Volunteers also monitor whether facilities are running smoothly, and may also be called to witness the signing of advance directives for health care or to support resident and family councils.

"It helps to keep problems down a little," said Denise Nelesen, communications manager for Aging and Independent Services.

Ombudsman volunteer Betty Holkestad said acting as a third party can prove valuable.

"Sometimes they're afraid to come to staff ... volunteers see and observe, and problems can be brought to their attention right away," she said.

The most common complaints are food and delays in residents receiving assistance due to short staffing at many facilities, ombudsmen volunteers said.

"There's not enough (staffing) to adequately meet (residents') needs," Nelesen said. The problem is nationwide, she added, and will only increase as the Baby Boomer generation ages.

However, the facilities -- which range from private homes that provide residential care to large, hotel-like assisted living locations -- see few major problems, volunteers said. Any that do arise may be referred to the appropriate licensing or law enforcement agency.

Volunteers are needed at facilities throughout North County, though the most immediate need is in eastern areas such as east Vista, Escondido, Fallbrook and San Marcos.

The ombudsmen also bring much-needed company to residents who may receive few visits from their families, volunteers said.

The agency is also looking for bilingual volunteers, and speakers of Spanish and Tagalog are especially needed. Samoan, Vietnamese and Chinese volunteers are also sought.

Ombudsman volunteer Jack Miller said he participates in the program because he "gets a kick out of doing nice things for people."

Added volunteer Bill Mann: "Elders gave us a lot of wisdom ... (this) is a little bit of payback now."

For more information on becoming a volunteer ombudsman, call (800) 640-4661.

-- Contact staff writer Sarah Wilkins at (760) 740-3524 or swilkins@nctimes.com.