Question: What does Options Counseling mean?
Answer: Options Counseling is a decision-support process where customers are assisted by ADRC Information & Assistance Specialists to evaluate and weigh their long-term care service options. Options Counseling helps customers feel heard and respected, while offering clear information and support regarding community resources and supports. Options Counseling also honors individual choice and allows people the ability to maintain control over the direction of their lives – you are the expert on you!
Maybe you are planning for next steps and weighing options related to life changes such as: a new or advancing health condition, a life-altering personal event or situation, or a significant change in circumstances. Maybe your support system is limited or you feel overwhelmed on what options even exist in the community. Options Counseling may be the perfect fit for you.
Call ADRC at (920) 448-4300 if you would like to speak with and/or schedule an appointment with an Information & Assistance Specialist to talk more about your specific situation. We are here to help!
Question: My husband lives in a nursing home. I hear other residents talking about working with an Ombudsman if there are concerns at the nursing home. What is an Ombudsman?
Answer: I am happy to hear the role of an Ombudsman is being discussed at the nursing home. It is a valuable role in our community! The word “ombudsman” (om-budz-man) is Scandinavian, meaning “a representative of the people.” The Ombudsman program is part of the Board on Aging & Long Term Care at the state level. An Ombudsman works with individuals and their families to protect and promote the rights of people using long-term care. This could include anyone who participates in a long-term care plan (i.e. Family Care or IRIS), or resides at a long-term care facility (i.e. nursing home, assisted living, or adult family home).
An Ombudsman can: answer questions about assisted living facilities or nursing homes, investigate complaints in these facilities and suggest solutions, help residents resolve problems and concerns, and provide consultation services to help before problems become crises.
The Ombudsman program is a great resource to connect with for questions on long-term care and get assistance advocating for all residents of care facilities. To connect with your local Ombudsman, contact the Board on Aging & Long Term Care at (800) 815-0015.
