Ombudsman for the county of Sonoma are a vital component of long term care services.  They provide a voice for vulnerable seniors who may feel overwhelmed, fearful or ashamed to communicate problems of abuse and neglect, be it physical, sexual, emotional, verbal or financial. 

Ombudsman provide the following services to those living in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and residential care homes:

• Advocate for resident’s rights
• Investigate complaints on behalf of residents in long term care facilities
• Act to protect vulnerable residents from abuse and neglect
• Safeguard clients rights to privacy by protecting confidential information
• Provide long term care placement information and assistance
• Educate the community about residents’ rights
• Present to community groups and organizations  about the role of Ombudsmen in senior advocacy and long term care