NCJ Number
176436
Journal
Journal of Elder Abuse & Neglect Volume: 7 Issue: 4 Dated: 1995 Pages: 75-91
Date Published
1995
Length
17 pages
Annotation
A national survey of the role of grass roots advocacy organizations in safeguarding nursing home residents suggested the heterogeneity of ombudsman programs is mirrored by citizen groups in various ways.
Abstract
The survey involved directors of grass roots citizen organizations that provided advocacy for nursing home residents. Because of the relative invisibility of these organizations, the starting point was the mailing list of the National Citizens Coalition for Nursing Home Reform. In total, 81 organizations were identified and sent questionnaires and 68 usable responses were received. Grass roots advocacy organizations were profiled in terms of purpose, operations, stability, record-keeping and evaluation, and relationship with State ombudsman organizations. Perceptions of these organizations by State officials were evaluated, and an effort was made to delineate general models of advocacy from among the 68 organizations studied. Findings suggested that the organizations provided supplemental manpower to official ombudsman programs by increasing their capacity to carry out oversight duties, circumventing political roadblocks, and overcoming bureaucratic inertia. In addition, the organizations served to improve program performance through scrutiny, criticism, or presence as an alternative. Shortcomings of ombudsman programs are noted, as well as the continuing need for citizen groups to provide grass roots advocacy for nursing home residents. 10 references and 2 tables