Call for Volunteers for the Ombudsman Program

Area Agency on Aging of East Texas • November 21, 2019

Volunteers Needed to Visit Seniors in Long-Term Care Facilities to Investigate Complaints, Advocate for Patient Rights

East Texas Area Agency on Aging Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is seeking volunteers to advocate for residents living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Volunteer ombudsmen visit residents, identify and investigate complaints, and educate residents, families, and facility staff on protecting the health, safety, welfare, and rights of individuals living in long-term care settings. Ombudsman services are free and confidential.

Volunteers must be at least 18-years old and complete a free, 36-hour training course that includes classroom, self-study and in-facility training. No prior experience is required. Hours are flexible and determined by each volunteer.

If you have one hour per week to make a difference in someone’s life, please contact Valerie Rushing at 903-218-6524 or Valerie.Rushing@etcog.org to register for the course.
A man and a woman are practicing yoga together in a park.
By Area Agency on Aging of East Texas April 2, 2025
Throughout May, the Area Agency on Aging of East Texas (AAA) will join organizations nationwide in celebrating Older Americans Month (OAM). This month-long observance honors the contributions of seniors in our communities. To mark the occasion, AAA will host and collaborate with local organizations for four special celebration events across East Texas, held at senior centers and community hubs. These events will highlight the importance of connection and the role strong relationships play in maintaining a vibrant, healthy senior population. OAM is a national initiative led by the Administration for Community Living. This year’s theme, “Flip the Script on Aging,” challenges outdated perceptions and encourages a fresh perspective on aging. It promotes a shift in how society talks about, understands, and supports older adults, empowering communities to embrace aging in a more positive and inclusive way. Join Us for These Community Celebrations! The following OAM events are open to the public and will feature food, entertainment, door prizes, and valuable information about services available to East Texas seniors: 📅 May 7 – Henderson Community Building, 302 Fair Park, Henderson | 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM 📅 May 15 – First United Methodist Church, 225 Lovers Ln, Athens | 9:30 AM - 2:00 PM 📅 May 16 – Jefferson Senior Center, 111 W. Broadway, Jefferson | 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM 📅 May 21 – Harrison County Agrilife Extension Office, 2005 Warren Drive, Marshall | 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM The AAA advocates for seniors and provides essential services, including benefits counseling, case management, health education, nutrition programs, referrals, and Ombudsman support for those in assisted living. These services promote independence and dignity, helping seniors remain in their communities. For event inquiries, call (903) 218-6500.
By Area Agency on Aging of East Texas October 15, 2024
Assistance is available to find and compare 2025 health and drug plans now
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