Residents of long-term care facilities: You are not forgotten and you are not alone

By Deirdre Garrett-Scott 

The New York State Long Term Care Ombudsman Program is a resident-centered and resident-directed advocacy program available to anyone residing in a nursing home, adult care facility or family-type home across the state. The Center for Independence of the Disabled, NY (CIDNY) is a sponsor of The Long Term Care Ombudsman Program in New York City. We know firsthand how crucial the Ombudsmen are in advocating for residents, addressing quality of life and quality of care issues along with residents’ rights concerns. Not only are the important to the residents, but also their families, friends, and the staff of the facilities.

Deirdre Garrett-Scott is New York State’s Long Term Care Ombudsman Program Coordinator. Photo via LinkedIn

Visitation to facilities has been restricted and we are under an edict of no in-person visitation. But make no mistake, we remain here for you. You are not forgotten and you are not alone. We are ready and eagerly awaiting to hear when we may resume our in-person visitations. The Long Term Care Ombudsman Program remains available to receive phone calls regarding any concerns or questions you may have about care. Please call 212-812-2901 to contact us.

At a time such as this, a truly unprecedented time, residents are in much need of an advocacy program. Once social distancing protocols are lifted, we will begin new trainings, at which time we will be seeking new volunteers to become Ombudsmen and join us in advocating on behalf of our long-term care residents.

Thank you.