Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Local Ombudsmen Step in to Help Residents of Palazzo Di Oro


Within minutes of receiving a call regarding the possible closure of Palazza Di Oro, an assisted living facility in Pinellas County, Natalie Clanzy, the District Ombudsman Manager, stepped into overtime to work on behalf of residents.  Local ombudsmen volunteers rallied around Natalie to ensure residents were well educated about their moving options.  “We wanted to make sure residents were given a choice about which assisted living facility to move to and ensure that their personal belongings go with them to their new place,” stated Natalie. 

Ombudsmen volunteers and staff worked in concert with Palazza Di Oro administrator and the Florida Assisted Living Association (FALA) to invite local assisted living facilities to a coordinated function at Palazza Di Oro.  Over 50 facilities were in attendance, displaying their services and amenities to residents.  “I was impressed with the way the ombudsmen volunteers assisted with the event and the number of assisted living facilities that participated,” stated Regional Ombudsman Manager, Diane Carpenter, “This may be a difficult transition for many residents.  With such a diligent group of ombudsmen volunteers and staff, I know they will continue to assist residents in making the move as smoothly as possible.”

If you or someone you know lives in a long-term care facility and needs help, call the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program Toll-Free today at 1-888-831-0404 or visit http://ombudsman.myflorida.com/.  All services are confidential and free of charge.