What does it take to be an ombudsman?

In my experience all it takes is a willingness to ignore complaints of the family and believe the facility side. I had to get actual video of the abuse occurring.

mally1, you cannot work at a facility or volunteer there and be the Ombudsman. Nor can you have family in the facility. It would be considered a conflict of interest.

Thanks, freqflyer.... guess I'll stay a companion, but may report some of this.

You would need to take a State program to become certified to be an Ombudsman, which means completing the State programs. Complete continuing education when required, and any programs necessary to keep your certification. You usually have to commit one year to the program putting in a certain number of hours and days as per the local program.

Chances are you wouldn't be able to be an elder companion or do any type of caregiving, as it would be a conflict of interest. Some of these Ombudsman positions are volunteer, thus no pay. You would need to check with your State to see if there are any paid positions.