Responsibilities
The Ombudsman Program is an oversight agency for elder rights in long-term care certified by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services. The program uses specially trained and certified individuals (ombudsmen) to provide advocacy services to residents of long-term care facilities.

Services
An ombudsman: 

• Helps identify resources for residents inside or outside of long-term care facilities
• Identifies, investigates, and resolves complaints by or on behalf of residents of long-term care facilities
• Provides information about long-term care facilities, eligibility criteria, and other services for the elderly and their family caregivers
• Provides information to residents, staff, and family members about resident rights and nursing facility requirements 
• Works with residents, families, and staff to resolve complaints and concerns

Volunteers
The Ombudsman Program relies heavily on volunteers to respond to and investigate resident complaints. Ongoing training and support is provided for volunteers. Persons interested in volunteering should contact the managing local ombudsman for more information.

Resources
View state ombudsman resources.