North Georgia Programs and Services Long-Term Care Ombudsman

09/01/2026

Your Voice. Your Vote.

Moving into a nursing home, personal care home, or assisted living community does not mean giving up your rights as a citizen.

That includes the right to vote.

Throughout September, we'll be talking about voting rights for people living in long-term care: what those rights include, what assistance residents can receive, and what residents, families, and facility staff should know as Election Day approaches.

Voting is a personal choice. Some residents will choose to participate, and others will not. What matters is that every eligible resident has the opportunity to make that choice for themselves, without interference or influence.

Because needing care should never mean losing your voice.

08/28/2026

It’s more than a room. It’s home.

For those who work in long-term care, it can be easy to see a resident’s room as part of the workplace. But for the person who lives there, that room is their home.

It is their private space. Their belongings are there. Their memories are there. It’s where they begin and end their day, welcome visitors, rest, make choices, and live their life.

That distinction matters.

Knocking before entering. Respecting personal belongings. Providing privacy. Asking permission. Honoring routines and preferences. These may seem like small gestures, but they recognize something important: a resident may need care and assistance, but this is still their life and their home.

Respect starts at the door.

08/26/2026

“I hope I'll be remembered as somebody that tried to do some good in the world and left, you know, a few good things.”
— Dolly Parton

08/25/2026

What does dignity look like?

Sometimes, it looks surprisingly ordinary.

It’s sleeping a little later because you’ve never been a morning person. Choosing what you want to wear. Having someone knock before entering your room. Deciding when you want a shower. Drinking your coffee the way you like it. Keeping the routines that have been yours for years.

It’s being asked instead of told.

For people living in long-term care, these everyday choices can carry enormous meaning. Needing help with daily life should never mean losing your individuality, your preferences, or your voice.

Resident rights protect much more than a list of rules. They protect the small pieces of independence and identity that make each of us who we are.

Dignity is found in the details. And the details matter. 💙

08/24/2026

When should you contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman?

Residents and families can contact the Ombudsman with questions, concerns, or simply when they're unsure about their rights or options in a long-term care setting.

Maybe you're concerned about a change in care. Maybe you have questions about a facility's policies. Maybe you've tried to resolve an issue and aren't sure what to do next. Or maybe you just need someone to help you understand what options are available.

Our role is to listen, provide information, and advocate for the wishes of the resident.

Not sure whether your concern is something we can help with? Reach out and ask. If we're not the right resource, we can help point you in the right direction.

08/20/2026

It's hot out there, and we want to make sure Cobb seniors are staying cool! High temperatures can cause heat-related illnesses, which can be dangerous for older adults. Thanks to a donation from Cobb County Emergency Management Agency, Cobb CARES and The Home Depot, we are providing free box fans to seniors in need. To make an appointment, please call 770-528-5356. Appointments will be held Aug. 18 - 31, while supplies last.

08/18/2026

Come see us tomorrow between 1pm and 3pm at the Forsyth County Senior Services Community Volunteer Fair!

Don’t miss the Volunteer Fair this week!

Stop by the Forsyth County Community Volunteer Fair and meet more than 20 local organizations looking for volunteers with all kinds of interests, skills and availability.

Join us Wednesday, Aug. 19, from 1-3 p.m. at Sexton Hall Enrichment Center. Adults of all ages are welcome!

Learn more about the event: https://www.forsythco.com/news/2026/08/discover-volunteer-opportunities-at-the-community-volunteer-fair/

08/04/2026

This brief explains in detail the rules and regulations protecting the rights of family members to meet in private and outlines how the facility must support the family council, including detailed information about the required grievance process. https://bit.ly/3Td97Bz

08/04/2026

Most of us are used to having the ability to grab a quick snack whenever we want it. That doesn't end when you enter a nursing home. Facilities must present snack options if a resident would like them. To bolster your right to snacks or alternative meals, make sure it's in your care plan!

07/23/2026

🧠 Join the 3rd Annual Brain Health & Dementia Symposium! 💜

This inspiring event will provide practical, understandable, and actionable information to help support brain health and dementia care—today and for the future. Hear from experts, discover valuable resources, and connect with others who are passionate about making a difference.

📅 Tuesday, September 29, 2026
🕙 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Registration begins at 9:00 AM)
📍 Lakewood Baptist Church – Gainesville, GA

🎟️ Admission:
• $20 General Admission
• $10 Students

Register today through the Beyond Dementia Coalition website:
Beyond Dementia Coalition