Older adults and adults with disabilities have the right to dignity, privacy, freedom from abuse and the ability to speak up without fear.

The Area Agency on Aging Ombudsman programs support older adults and adults with disabilities by ensuring they feel heard, respected and safe.  

The long-term care ombudsman are resident-directed advocates providing advocacy on behalf of older adults and adults with disabilities who live in nursing homes and assisted living residences. Long-term care ombudsmen are trained to receive complaints and help resolve complaints made by or on behalf of residents.

The Area Agency on Aging also provides ombudsmen for the Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, also known as PACE.  

PACE allows older adults to remain in their home rather than receive care in a nursing home.  

Ombudsmen do not conduct licensing or regulatory inspections, investigate Adult Protective Services cases or provide direct care.

All services are free and confidential. Ombudsmen can talk with residents or family members by phone, email or video.  Interpreter services are available.

For more information, call 303-480-6734 or email the Area Agency on Aging.