What is a Regional Coalition?
Regional Coalitions are the Culture Change organizations with the closest proximity to elders living in care centers. These coalitions are located throughout the state and draw upon the resources of individuals and organizations to improve the quality of life for residents in homes providing care for elders.
Their mission of improving the life for elders is accomplished by vigorous programs of education and engagement with providers, family members, regulators, and residents. Throughout the state, Regional Coalitions host panel discussions, lectures, roundtables, symposiums, conferences, and seminars which offer the latest information and innovations in culture change practices. In addition, many of the coalitions are constantly developing informational documents which can provide important reference material for those concerned with elder care.
Although independent, all of the Regional Coalitions have support from a strong 'champion' organization. Many of the coalitions began as part of the Illinois Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, or as an initiative of an Area Agency on Ageing. Others have close ties with a nursing home or with another advocacy group, such as The Alzheimer Association. These champions provide a range of assistance from clerical support to providing a space to meet.
Regional Coalitions are an important component in the overall effort to improve the quality of care and life for elders.