Who serves as the legal advocate for residents in long-term care facilities to help resolve disputes?

• A. OBRA
• B. Ombudsman
• C. Laws
• D. Misappropriation of Property

Answer: (B)

In long-term care, residents have rights that need protection and a neutral advocate to help resolve disputes. An ombudsman serves precisely this role by acting as an independent advocate for residents, helping them understand and exercise their rights, and assisting with complaints or conflicts with the facility.

The ombudsman listens to residents, investigates concerns, and often mediates between the resident, family, and facility staff to find fair resolutions. They provide information about rights and options, help navigate complaint processes, and ensure residents receive due process and appropriate care. This role is designed to be impartial and separate from the facility to protect residents’ interests.

OBRA is the law that established and governs resident rights and the ombudsman program, but it is not the advocate itself. Laws and Misappropriation of Property describe broad concepts or crimes, not a dedicated, independent advocate for disputes. Therefore, the best answer is the ombudsman.