Illinois Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program


  • Kelly RichardsState Long-Term Care Ombusdman
  • Illinois Department on Aging
  • One Natural Resources Way, Suite #100,
  • Springfield, IL 62702-1271
  • Phone: 1-800-252-8966 or Contact the Regional Long-Term Care Ombudsman in your area:
  • Ombudsman Contact List:
  • TDD: 1-888-206-1327
  • Email: Aging.ilsenior@illinois.gov
  • Website Link:

Purpose of the Program

Mandated by the federal Older Americans Act, the Illinois Department on Aging’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program protects and promotes the rights and quality of life for people who reside in long-term care facilities  (nursing homes). Long-Term Care Ombudsmen protect, defend and advocate for residents by informing residents and their families of their rights; Resolving complaints; Providing information on residents needs/concerns to their families, facility staff and their community; and Advocating for good individualized care.

Who is Eligible

The Illinois Department on Aging defines a resident as a person 60 or older who is a current resident, a prospective resident, or a former resident of a long-term care facility. The Ombudsman is also available to Friends and relatives of persons who live in long-term care facilities; Long term care facility staff members and administrators with resident-related concerns; Individuals and families who are considering nursing home placement as a long-term care option; The community-at-large; and Other interested groups concerned about the welfare of residents of long-term care facilities.

Application Process

The reasons to contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman is to report a problem or concern; To seek information about long-term care facilities; To learn more about Illinois’ Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program; or To get answers to questions about Facility services or standards; Medical coverage; Resident rights; and/or Transfer or discharge. Information about the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program can be obtained Monday-Friday, 8:30a.m.-5:00 p.m. CST through the Illinois Department on Aging’s Senior HelpLine at 1-800-252-8966 or 1-888-206-1327(TTY) or you may also call your Regional  Long-Term Care Ombudsman who may be located at the following address  https://www2.illinois.gov/aging/programs/LTCOmbudsman/Documents/LTCOP_Contact%20List.pdf

How Funds are to be Used

To provide Long-Term Care services to older persons.

Types of Assistance

Other Assistance

Year Program was established

1970