RI State Long Term Care Ombudsman Program

05/30/2026

Being heard, understood, and able to connect with others is a right all residents deserve.

The RI State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program helps advocate for residents when communication barriers create frustration, isolation, or unmet needs.

If there is a resident in your life who could use assistance being heard, reach out to our team – we’re here to advocate on their behalf.

05/29/2026

A group of U.S. Senators recently outlined a plan to improve the affordability, access, and quality of long-term care services. Key priorities include strengthening nursing home staffing standards, increasing transparency in how care funding is spent, improving oversight and accountability, and addressing workforce shortages through better recruitment and retention efforts.

These reforms matter because adequate staffing and strong oversight are directly linked to better health outcomes, improved quality of life, and safer care for residents. Every resident deserves dignified, person-centered care delivered by a well-supported workforce.

We look forward to continued efforts that prioritize the needs of long-term care residents and the caregivers who support them every day.

05/29/2026

Every nursing home resident has the legal right to be free from abuse, neglect, exploitation, and misappropriation of property.

Under federal law, this includes freedom from:
-Corporal punishment
-Involuntary seclusion
-Any physical or chemical restraint not required to treat a medical condition
-Verbal, sexual, physical, and mental abuse

These are not suggestions, they are federally protected rights, and it's crucial that residents know them in order to demand them.

Visit https://theconsumervoice.org/residents-rights to learn more.

05/28/2026

⭐ Resident Spotlight: Sister Elaine ⭐

At 94 years young, Sister Elaine’s life is a beautiful testament to faith, education, and connection. A Sister of Mercy for 75 years, she has dedicated her life to serving others and uplifting her community.

With a master’s degree in education, Sister Elaine spent many years working in the Fall River education office, shaping young minds and mentoring adults entering the field of education. Her passion for learning continues to shine through in everything she does.

Family is incredibly important to her, and she is a proud aunt to 13 nephews and nieces, including great nephews and nieces. She also treasures her many friendships, staying connected by reading and writing letters, and surrounding herself with others.

Sister Elaine believes that education is the key to bettering oneself and encourages everyone to never stop learning. Her kindness is just as powerful as her wisdom:

🗨️ “Be kind to others at all times – you never know what someone is going through.”

One of her most special connections? A former first-grade student, now 71 years old, with whom she still meets for breakfast, a lifelong bond built through care and dedication.

Her life is a true inspiration of compassion, purpose, and lifelong impact.

05/25/2026

This Memorial Day, we honor and remember those who gave their lives in service to our country.

05/22/2026

Join us in welcoming Jamie, who joins the LTC Ombudsman Program with 13 years of experience in human services and case management supporting adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in Rhode Island and Maryland.

Jamie is trained in Professional Leadership, Trauma-Informed Care, Self-Determination, and Person-Centered Supports. Additionally, she has participated in advocacy efforts at the State House, pushing for legislation to improve access for Rhode Island’s vulnerable populations. Jamie believes all people have value and is eager to continue her advocacy work with people living in long-term care settings in the state.

05/21/2026

⭐ Resident Spotlight: Edward ⭐

At 86 years young, Edward continues to inspire us all. A dedicated management engineer, he still works part-time and believes one of the keys to staying young is to keep working as long as you can.

Edward is a proud father of two, grandfather of six, and great-grandfather to one – a legacy he cherishes deeply. Throughout his life, he has embraced every opportunity to travel, meet new people, and experience the world.

These days, Edward continues to live life on his own terms, even driving himself, including at night!

His wisdom, independence, and passion for staying active remind us that age is truly just a number.

🗨️ “Keep going, keep working, and keep connecting,” Edward says, and we couldn’t agree more.

05/20/2026

Supporting a loved one in long-term care?

Your role matters more than you think.

Championing health means recognizing that well-being extends beyond physical health. Emotional and social well-being are equally important. We encourage families to take an active role in:
✔️ Staying connected with family
✔️ Participating in meaningful activities
✔️ Ensuring residents feel safe and heard

You’re not alone in this.

The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is here to help advocate, support, and guide you.

📞 401-785-3340

05/20/2026

Elder abuse is not rare. It is dramatically underreported because victims are often isolated, dependent on their caregivers, or afraid to speak up.

That's why awareness matters. That's why you matter.

Knowing the signs, your rights, and how to report abuse save lives.

Learn more: https://theconsumervoice.org/elder-abuse/

05/19/2026

Alert: LTCCC Releases New Nursing Home Antipsychotic Drugging Data While Warning of Gaps in Federal Reporting.

Alert: LTCCC Releases New Nursing Home Antipsychotic Drugging Data While Warning of Gaps in Federal Reporting May 8, 2026 – The Long Term Care Community Coalition (LTCCC) today released new, facility-level data on antipsychotic (AP) drugging in U.S. nursing homes, highlighting both the continuing ...