Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program

The Michigan Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (MLTCOP) is a free advocacy program that represents and protects the rights of residents living in the state’s long-term-care facilities. It serves roughly 105,000 residents of licensed nursing homes, homes for the aged, and adult foster care facilities — speaking up for some of Michigan’s most vulnerable older adults and their families.

Ombudsmen investigate and help resolve residents’ concerns about care and services, provide information and consultation on long-term-care matters, educate residents and families about their rights, and offer training to resident councils and facility staff. They also work to improve long-term-care policies and regulations at a systemic level. A defining principle of the program is that ombudsmen act only at the direction and with the consent of the resident — the resident’s wishes drive everything they do — and all services are provided at no cost.

This resource matters because residents and families often don’t know their rights or feel powerless to address poor care, neglect, or disputes with a facility. An independent, no-cost advocate levels that imbalance and can be a powerful ally when problems arise. For caregivers whose loved one lives in — or is moving into — a Michigan care facility, knowing the ombudsman exists is essential. Families can find their local ombudsman representative and contact information at mltcop.org to raise concerns, ask about residents’ rights, or request training.