Giving the Vulnerable a Voice: A Journey of Empowerment (Susan’s Story)

Once fiercely self-reliant, Susan recently found herself struggling with an unexpected loss of independence. Due to a series of falls, the senior apartment complex she lived in became concerned for her well-being and urged her to transition to an assisted living community. What followed was a disheartening encounter with unresponsive care, where promises of support rang hollow.

"The original agency I was at wasn't listening," Susan recalls, her voice tinged with disappointment. "I felt like I had lost my voice."

This loss of being seen and heard is a plight many face as they age—a silent erosion of personal power. Yet, amid disillusionment, and a change in her living situation to a different facility, a lifeline emerged: the New York State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program. Initiated with a plea for help, Susan was met with immediate responsiveness, a stark contrast to her previous experiences.

"The speed of their response was a relief," Susan shares. "It was almost like someone finally heard me after all the waiting."

Assigned an Ombudsman who listened attentively, Susan found herself once again at the center of her care decisions. "They listened to me," she reflects, her gratitude palpable. "It wasn't about being dismissed anymore."

The program didn't just restore Susan's voice—it reignited her sense of worth and dignity. "You want to be heard," Susan emphasizes, her words resonating with anyone who has felt sidelined. "Especially when it's about something as personal as your health and well-being."

As she speaks, it becomes clear that Susan's journey is more than personal—it's a call to action. "We disempower people as they age," she asserts, her tone unwavering. "We need to acknowledge the wisdom and value they bring to our communities."

Susan's story is not just about finding solace in advocacy; it's about reclaiming a place in society that often overlooks its aging population. "I hope this program expands," Susan expresses with conviction. "It needs to be empowered by those who hold the reins of influence."

Her plea is not just for herself but for countless others whose voices may falter under the weight of ageism. "My time is not over," Susan declares with a smile in her voice. "I still have much to contribute."

In a society that measures worth by productivity and speed, Susan's journey reminds us of a different metric—compassion and responsiveness. "Listen," she urges, her words a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of aging.

And listen we must, for in Susan's words lies a universal truth: every voice, regardless of age or circumstance, deserves to be heard.

The New York State Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, administered by Catholic Charities Tri-County Services agency, stands as a staunch protector of the rights and well-being of individuals residing in nursing homes, adult care facilities, and family type homes across New York State.

Dedicated volunteers and certified staff Ombudsmen are trained to visit these facilities, listening to residents' concerns and complaints, and advocating tirelessly for enhanced care and quality of life. Their role extends beyond mere oversight; they collaborate closely with facility staff to address issues and ensure residents' voices are heard and respected.

For more information or to report concerns, please contact the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program at 518-372-5667.