Support from others and efficacy of volunteer ombudsmen in long-term care facilities

The work of the ombudsman has been described as the most difficult in the f ield of aging. Hypotheses about support from ten sources, relationships wit h peers, and efficacy were tested using questionnaire data from 607 volunte er ombudsmen in nursing facilities. Support from facility administrators an d residents contributed to efficacy whereas help from other volunteers had a negative effect. Committed peers, however, facilitated the perception of a job well done. Efficacious ombudsmen believed their needs were taken into account suggesting tile importance of caring for volunteers who in turn ca re for others.