The Area Agency on Aging of Southwest Arkansas is seeking a dedicated, compassionate individual to join our team as a Long-Term Care Ombudsman. This full-time position offers an opportunity to advocate for residents of long-term care facilities, protect their rights, and help improve their quality of life.
Learn more about the position, responsibilities, and qualifications below.
About the job
Company Description AREA AGENCY ON AGING OF SOUTHWEST ARKANSAS, INC. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving older adults and their families across Southwest Arkansas. Based in Magnolia, Arkansas, the agency focuses on providing support, advocacy, and services that promote independence, dignity, and quality of life for older residents. The organization works closely with community partners, care providers, and government agencies to coordinate aging-related services and resources. Team members have the opportunity to make a direct, meaningful impact on the lives of long-term care residents and their families.
Role Description The Long Term Care Ombudsman is a full-time, on-site role located in Magnolia, AR. This role is responsible for advocating for residents in long-term care facilities, investigating and helping resolve concerns related to care, rights, and quality of life. Day-to-day tasks include visiting facilities, meeting with residents and families, documenting complaints, and working with facility staff and community partners to address issues and promote best practices. The Ombudsman provides education on residents’ rights, maintains detailed records, prepares reports, and participates in outreach activities to raise awareness of long-term care resources and protections. The role also involves collaborating with internal agency staff, attending trainings, and ensuring compliance with relevant state and federal regulations.
Qualifications
- Ability to advocate effectively for long-term care residents, including strong interviewing, listening, and conflict-resolution skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for documenting cases, preparing reports, and educating residents, families, and facility staff.
- Organizational and time-management skills to manage multiple cases, maintain accurate records, and meet reporting deadlines.
- Knowledge or willingness to learn about long-term care regulations, residents’ rights, and aging-related services.
- Demonstrated interpersonal skills, including empathy, patience, professionalism, and the ability to build trust with diverse populations.
- Basic computer skills for data entry, email communication, and use of agency software and online resources.
- High school diploma or equivalent required; postsecondary education in social work, gerontology, human services, or a related field preferred.
- Prior experience working with older adults, in long-term care settings, or in advocacy or social services roles is beneficial.
- Ability to travel locally to long-term care facilities, with a valid driver’s license and reliable transportation as required by agency policy.
- Commitment to confidentiality, ethical conduct, and compliance with state and federal ombudsman program guidelines.