6. The Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman shall have as its basic objective that of promoting, advocating and insuring, as a whole and in particular cases, the adequacy of the care received, and the quality of life experienced, by elderly patients, residents and clients of facilities within this State. In determining what elements are essential to adequate care and quality of life, the ombudsman shall consider the unique medical, social and economic needs and problems of the elderly as patients, residents and clients of facilities and as citizens and community members.

L.1977, c.239, s.6; amended 2017, c.131, s.204.