An ombudsman or "ombuddy" is a person who responds to the concerns of elderly persons or disabled adults who live in long-Term care facilities.

An ombudsman can help residents understand and exercise their rights to good care. Ombudsmen are impartial mediators when they look into situations of concerns to residents, and if grounds for a complaint are found, ombudsmen may supply information, suggest solutions, and encourage action or changes on behalf of the residents.

In Montana, the Department of Public Health and Human Services/Senior and Long Term Care Division employs two state long term care ombudsmen, who are responsible for coordinating local certified LTC professionals , field staff and volunteers, and for providing ombudsman services throughout the state.

Contact The Area VI Agency on Aging Ombudsman Services .