Residents of any long-term care facility have rights. Whether it's a nursing home, group home, or convalescent center, every resident has rights so that each individual can keep his or her dignity, respect and value.
Resident Rights
The right to confidentiality, privacy and respect
The right to be fully informed
The right to participate in one's own care
The right to keep possessions
The right to manage one's own finances
The right to purchase goods and services
The right to voice grievances
The right to communicate freely
The right to participate in activities
The right to be free from abuse and restraint
The right to marital priveleges
The right to remain in the facility
What Resident Rights Mean
Resident rights mean that all residents have every human right that most citizens in our society enjoy. Each enjoys the right to have their medical and financial records kept confidential, meaning staff can't share pertinent information with any one else.
Residents can be involved in their care and have input on choices about treatment. They have the right to know what is going on with their condition, what diagnosis have been made, and their prognosis.
Whether they buy items from a store within the facility or enjoy outings to nearby shops, every resident has the right to spend money and buy things. They also can manage their own money including keeping their own checkbook. If things are not going well or problems are spotted within the facility, residents have every right to speak up and complain. There must be ongoing activities that they can participate in if they so choose. Spouses can share a room and be as intimate as they wish to be.
Communication is a vital human need and residents have the right. If communication is difficult due to a health condition or disability, assistance in communication must be provided.
No resident should be mentally or physically abused. Restraints are sometimes used in long term care facilities but residents have the right to refuse such devices.
If you or someone you love resides in a long-term care facility, know resident rights. They should be posted in a prominent, visible spot within the facility and each resident should be given a copy of the rights upon admission.