Know Your Rights in Long-Term Care
Moving into a long-term care facility is a big change. It can take time to learn new routines, meet staff, and get comfortable in a new home. Residents and their families should also know that moving into a long-term care facility doesn’t mean giving up their personal rights.
Both state and federal law protect the rights of people who live in long-term care facilities. These include skilled nursing facilities, often called nursing homes, and residential care facilities, which may also be called assisted living or board-and-care homes.
Residents have the right to make choices about their daily lives. For example, residents can choose when to wake up, when to eat, how to spend their time, and when to receive visitors. They also have the right to:
- Privacy and confidentiality in communications, visits, and medical care.
- Information about their rights, available services, and their health condition in their preferred language.
- Participate in a resident council and raise concerns about their facility.
- Receive notice and participate in planning if they are transferred or discharged.
- Be free from abuse, neglect, discrimination, and physical or chemical restraints.
- Manage their own money and make decisions about their medical care.
- Make complaints without fear of retaliation.
Long-Term Care Ombudsman representatives can help residents and families understand their rights, answer questions, and address concerns. Ombudsman representatives provide confidential support and work with residents to resolve complaints while respecting their wishes and choices.
Learn more about long-term care residents’ rights or find the Long-Term Care Ombudsman office in your county.