Protecting Rights and Dignity Through Long-term Care Ombudsman Program

Catholic Charities recently spoke with Jean Larson, a resident at Cedarbrook Senior Care and Rehab. At 89 years old, Jean remains active in community projects, counseling meetings as president, helps with fundraisers and continues to be a respected leader among fellow residents. She worked at the facility for 18 years before retiring and later returned as a resident, where she has lived for the past 11 years. For Jean, Cedarbrook is more than a residence — it is a place filled with meaningful memories and a strong sense of home and happiness.

Known for her leadership and problem-solving spirit, Jean has been committed to helping fellow residents address everyday concerns since the day she arrived. She understands the challenges staff face in managing the many needs within the facility and has always looked for ways to support her neighbors. Through Lisa Taylor, Counselor of Catholic Charities, Jean learned about the Ombudsman Program Catholic Charities administers in three counties, several years ago.

“But now with the Ombudsman, it takes a lot off my shoulders. They are here, visible, direct, helpful, and available. I would not hesitate to reach out to them if I ever needed assistance.”

The Ombudsman Program empowers residents in long-term care facilities by ensuring their voices are heard. Advocates work on behalf of residents to address complaints and concerns while always honoring the wishes of the individual. The program’s mission is to protect residents’ rights and dignity while improving quality of care and enhancing the long-term care experience for residents and their families.

Key services available to facilities throughout Lehigh County, Northampton County, and Berks County are:

  • Resident Rights Advocacy: Ensuring residents are treated with dignity and respect.
  • Complaint Investigation: Addressing concerns involving abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation.
  • Care Quality Monitoring: Conducting regular visits to facilities to assess standards of care.
  • Facility Mediation: Helping resolve concerns between residents, families, and care providers.
  • Advance Health Care Directives: Assisting residents with completing legal health care documents.
  • Support for Family and Resident Councils: Educating and empowering residents to advocate for themselves.
  • Legal Referrals: Connecting residents with appropriate legal resources when needed.

Ombudsman services are client-driven and client-directed. As advocates for consumers, Ombudsmen act according to the wishes and best interests of each resident they serve.

If you need to reach an Ombudsman, please call (484) 619-3337 in Lehigh/Northampton and (610) 376-7144 ext. 5322 in Berks County.