The mission of INCOG Area Agency on Aging is to improve the quality of life by promoting independence, dignity, and health for senior citizens in Creek, Osage and Tulsa counties through advocacy, education and support of community-based services.

These services include senior nutrition including home-delivered meals, legal assistance, homemaker (light cleaning), transportation, caregiver support, information and assistance, and advocacy for individuals in long-term care facilities.

The primary volunteer opportunity is to serve as a Long-Term Care Ombudsman, which is an advocate for individuals in nursing homes, assisted living, or residential care facilities.  Ombudsman volunteers must pass a background check and attend a two-day training workshop.  Volunteer positions are supported by full-time Long-Term Care Ombudsman Supervisors who conduct training and provide technical assistance to, and for volunteers.  Volunteers are asked to visit facilities for two hours of their choosing per week and interact with residents on an informal basis.  Should there be advocacy issues, Ombudsmen intervene, always on behalf of the resident.  It is the Ombudsman belief that even though an individuals may live in a long-term care facility, they should be supported in their right to make decisions for themselves and be treated with respect and dignity.  Ombudsmen are not responsible for the medical well-being of the resident, nor they need medical background.  Volunteers must have a heart for senior citizens and defending their right to make decisions for themselves.