Who investigates accusations of rights violations in nursing facilities or assisted living facilities?

The correct response is the Ombudsman. An Ombudsman serves as an independent advocate for residents in nursing facilities and assisted living facilities, focusing specifically on addressing concerns regarding the quality of care and potential rights violations. They investigate complaints made by residents, their families, or other concerned parties and work to resolve issues related to elder care, accessibility, and patient rights.

This role is vital because it provides a neutral party that can address grievances without fear of reprisal or conflict of interest, ensuring that residents can live with dignity and receive adequate care. In many states, including Florida, the Ombudsman program is established by law to protect the rights of individuals in long-term care facilities, making it a key resource for investigating and resolving allegations of neglect or abuse.

The other options may have roles that intersect with elder care but do not primarily focus on investigating rights violations. Social services and legal representatives might assist residents in various ways, including helping them access benefits or navigate legal matters. The state health department plays a significant role in the oversight and regulation of health facilities but is typically not the first line of investigation for individual rights violations, as that is more specifically the purview of the Ombudsman.