Weld County recognizes Long-Term Care Residents’ Rights Month

Published on October 14, 2026

The Weld County Board of Commissioners proclaimed October as Long-Term Residents’ Rights Month. The month highlights the right of people in long-term care to be treated with dignity and have a say in their care.

The Weld County Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program helps protect these rights. Ombudsmen listen to residents' concerns, help resolve problems, and connect people with services. Their goal is to support quality care and improve residents' quality of life.

Weld County's three ombudsmen serve eight nursing homes and 25 assisted living facilities.

"We have to remember that these facilities are more than places where people receive care. They are someone's home,” said Perry Buck, Commissioner Coordinator for the Department of Human Services (DHS). “Every resident should be able to make choices about their own life and feel comfortable speaking up when something isn't right."

 In fiscal year 2026, the team investigated more than 620 complaints, up from 500 the year before. During an on-site review earlier this year, the team earned praise for their high standards and focus on residents' needs.

"They work tirelessly to raise awareness and promote advocacy each and every day," said Tami Grant, DHS Deputy Director. “They don’t do this work alone but in close collaboration with the Area Agency on Aging, the Case Management Agency, and many valued community partners."

Moving into a long-term care facility does not mean losing a say in daily life. Ombudsmen empower residents to speak up for their rights and seek the quality of care they deserve.

“The ombudsmen do such amazing work in protecting not only the most vulnerable among us, but the most valuable,” said Board Chair Scott James.

To learn more about residents' rights and the Weld County Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, visit www.weld.gov/go/LTC_Rights.