About the Ombudsdman Programs
The Ombudsman Program has proudly operated in Massachusetts since 1973, advocating for the rights, dignity, and quality of care for individuals living in long-term care settings. This includes residents in Skilled Nursing Facilities, Rest Homes, and Assisted Living Residences.
Ombudsmen are trained volunteers who receive state-provided instruction focused on facility regulations and resident rights. They visit facilities regularly, listen to concerns, and work with residents, families, and staff to help resolve issues related to care, safety, and quality of life. While Ombudsmen do not provide legal advice, they can offer information and referrals to resources such as Community Legal Aid when needed.
We believe that all individuals in long-term care, whether there for short-term rehabilitation, respite care, or a permanent residence, deserve to live their lives with respect and choice while receiving the support they need.
Long-Term Care Ombudsman
Greater Springfield Senior Services’ Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program covers all nursing homes and rest homes located in our 12-town service area. This includes Agawam, East Longmeadow, Hampden, Longmeadow, Palmer, Springfield, West Springfield, and Wilbraham.
Assisted Living Ombudsman
The Assisted Living Ombudsman Program serves residents of assisted living residences across several counties in Western Massachusetts. GSSSI coordinates this program for the region, ensuring that assisted living residents have access to advocacy, complaint resolution, and support.
To find the Assisted Living Ombudsman assigned to a specific residence, call us today or visit the Massachusetts Executive Office of Aging & Independence website:
Find an Assisted Living Ombudsman
Community Care Ombudsman
The Community Care Ombudsman Program is a statewide resource for adults age 60 and older who receive home-based services. It provides help with complaints about home health care, state-funded home care programs, and private elder care services. For support, contact the statewide Community Care Ombudsman at the Executive Office of Aging & Independence at (617) 727-7750.
Who is My Ombudsman?
The name and photo of the ombudsman is posted in a public space in the facility and is readily identifiable. These individuals visit the facility on a regular basis and will make themselves available to speak with residents and visitors.
To find out more information, call GSSSI today, and we will be happy to connect you to the agency that serves your community.
Contact an Ombudsman
If you have an urgent question or issue, or would like to make a referral for a volunteer to speak with a resident you are welcome to contact the Ombudsman Program Supervisor at GSSSI at 800-649-3641 or through our contact form. Staff are available by phone Monday through Friday 8am to 4pm. Voicemails are returned in a timely manner.
If you have a concern about the safety of a Nursing Home or Rest Home resident, please contact the MA. Dept. of Public Health compliant line at 800-462-5540 to report the situation. To report a concern about the safety of an Assisted Living Resident, please contact GSSSI at 1-800-649-3641 and ask to speak with the Assisted Living Ombudsman Director.
Become a Volunteer
If you would like to inquire about becoming a volunteer, please feel free to call 800-649-3641 and ask to speak to the Ombudsman Program Supervisor.