“The payoff you’ll get will far outweigh the work that goes into it, but it’s not like other volunteer jobs. It requires a level of commitment to the people you’re working with.”
Richard Danford – Regional Ombuds
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO CHAMPION RESIDENTS’ RIGHTS
Spokane, Wash – A devoted team of trained volunteers is quietly transforming the lives of residents in long-term care facilities. These unsung heroes are the backbone of SNAP’s Eastern Washington Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, dedicated to upholding the rights and dignity of individuals in nursing homes, adult family homes, assisted living facilities, and enhanced services facilities.
With a steadfast commitment to safeguard and uphold residents’ rights as guaranteed under federal and state law, these compassionate volunteers serve as educators and advocates. They conduct weekly visits, offering vital information about resident rights and community resources while tirelessly addressing concerns and complaints.
“In this region, there are about 8,000 different beds where people are aged or disabled and living in facilities,” explained Regional Ombuds Richard Danford. “It’s our responsibility to ensure their rights are protected, they’re treated with dignity, they receive entitled services, and they’re empowered in their own care and decision-making process.”
“It’s our responsibility to ensure their rights are protected, they’re treated with dignity, they receive entitled services, and they’re empowered in their own care and decision-making process.”
Richard Danford – Regional Ombuds
Danford emphasizes the immense satisfaction volunteers derive from their advocacy work. They establish meaningful relationships with residents, fostering mutual respect and understanding. Personal connections also offer insights into potential issues regarding care or services provided.
However, the Eastern Washington Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is facing a critical shortage of volunteers, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. With only 21 volunteers serving a vast region encompassing Spokane, Pend Oreille, Ferry, Stevens, and Whitman counties, the need for new recruits has never been more urgent.
“We couldn’t fulfill our mission without volunteers,” said Patricia Hunter, Washington State Long-Term Care Ombuds. “Volunteer Ombuds assess residents’ well-being, identify instances of poor care quality and violations of rights, and assist in resolving complaints. They serve as a voice for those who may feel voiceless or fear retaliation if they speak up.”
The shortage of volunteers not only hinders the program’s ability to reach every resident in need but also exacerbates existing issues within long-term care facilities, including involuntary discharges.
Danford estimates the program’s coverage area includes over 400 facilities, ideally requiring one ombuds for each. However, due to current limitations, many facilities remain uncovered, leaving residents unaware of available support.
Imagine being a resident in a long-term care facility, feeling voiceless and powerless to advocate for your rights. That’s the reality for some individuals in our community. But you can change that. You can be the voice of change and compassion.
“To become an Ombudsman, you must commit to attending classroom training, dedicating four hours each week to visiting residents, and participating in monthly continuing education in-service meetings,” Danford explained.
Whether you’re a concerned individual, a caring family member, or a compassionate community member, your support of this SNAP run program is urgently needed.
“The payoff you’ll get will far outweigh the work that goes into it, but it’s not like other volunteer jobs,” said Danford. “It requires a level of commitment to the people you’re working with.”
Contact the Eastern Washington Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program today at (509) 456-7133 or visit www.snapwa.org/ltco to learn more about how you can make a difference in the lives of those in need.
We would greatly appreciate your support as we empower our community by providing opportunities to people in need.