According to a 2005 factsheet by the National Center on Elder Abuse, the incidence of abuse of the elderly is between 2% and 10% nationwide. Remarkably, the NCEA believes that, for every incident of elder abuse in America, five additional incidents are not reported. It seems like there is a story about a nursing home resident being abused in the newspaper every day.

 In Idaho, if you are a resident of a nursing home or assisted living facility and believe a loved one is being abused or neglected, you have someplace to turn. The Idaho Commission on Aging  has an “Ombudsman” program to help you.

An Ombusman is a person appointed by the Idaho Commission on Aging to investigate complaints concerning your care in either a Nursing Home or an Assisted Living Facility. The Ombudsman will insure your health, safety, welfare and rights are protected. You can contact the Ombudsman free of charge 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The Ombudsman is an excellent resource for residents of Idaho’s nursing homes and assisted living facilities. In fact, the Ombudsman’s primary job is to "advocate for resident’s rights and quality care." Because the Ombusdman is familiar with the duties a nursing home or assisted living facility owes to its residents, he or she can answer a variety of questions or accept ensure the investigation of resident complaints. If you have a question about the care you or a family member is receiving in an Idaho nursing home or assisted living facility, the Ombudsman should be your first call.