Volunteers sought for care facilities

Approximately a dozen long-term care facilities in Whitman County currently lack advocates assigned to look out for the rights of its residents.

The Eastern Washington Long-Term Care Ombudsman program hopes to address that shortcoming by recruiting qualified volunteers who can be assigned these facilities.

Volunteers commit four hours each week to residents of designated long-term care facilities. Trained volunteers visit nursing homes, adult family homes and assisted living facilities to advocate for and help protect the rights of residents.

Volunteers provide long-term residents with information about their rights and community resources, listen to concerns and help assure fair treatment. Volunteers act as mediators to help resolve concerns or complaints of residents and speak up for vulnerable residents who may be too frail to make their needs known.

“We’re looking for problem solvers who have a genuine interest in making a difference in the lives of people in their community,” said Linda Petrie, a regional Long-Term Care Ombudsman who oversees the Eastern Washington program. “The quality of life will vastly improve for residents of these facilities when a local ombudsman is available to visit on a regular basis.”

Training will begin in September. At the end of the 30-hour training program, volunteers will be certified as a Long-Term Care Ombudsman.

Continuing education is provided at subsequent monthly meetings.

Petrie said the volunteer service is ideal for someone who has some free time and is looking for a rewarding experience.

For a volunteer application, or to learn more about the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program, call (509) 456-7133 or 1-800-660-7133.