Volunteer advocates and investigators are needed to serve as ombudsmen for residents of nursing homes, residential care facilities, assisted living facilities and adult foster care homes on the South Coast.

The Office of the Long Term Care Ombudsman will train the volunteers on the aging process, communication skills, problem-solving skills, investigation and other ombudsman skills. The certification training will begin on Thursday, July 10, in Eugene.

As certified ombudsmen, the volunteers work to improve the quality of residents’ lives, by identifying and investigating complaints and concerns on behalf of the residents, then working with the facilities to make changes. The typical concerns ombudsmen address cover a broad range, and often include resident care; residents’ rights, such as privacy, respect and dignity; and quality of life concerns such as appropriate activities and meals.

“The volunteers make a tremendous difference in the lives of the residents,” said Program Administrator Kathy Walter, in a press release. “They are well-prepared and effective.”

For information about the program or to learn how to get involved, those interested can call Walter at (800) 522-2602.