Sometimes life throws you a curve. A sudden, debilitating illness forces you to place your loved one in the first nursing home with an opening. Now you’ve noticed how inadequate the care is. You’ve complained to the nurses, the head nurse and the administrator, with no success. Can you do anything else? The answer is yes!

Check the internet or call your local Area Agency on Aging to find out the name and phone number for the federal nursing home ombudsman in your state. The ombudsman mediates disputes and has the clout to require action from the nursing home. The ombudsman can also provide you with the most recent copy of the rights of nursing home residents as guaranteed by the federal government and state.

Finding a good fit between person and place will take some homework on your part. But once the decision is made, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that your loved one is happy and well cared for in a safe environment. And that means a lot for both you and the special person who’s relying on you.