What Rights Do Nursing Home Residents Have?

As people age, they may transition into a nursing home for the increased care and support it provides. It's crucial to remember that this transition doesn't diminish their rights. In fact, federal and state laws specifically protect the rights of nursing home residents. Let's delve into some of these essential rights.

What Rights Do Nursing Home Residents Have?

Nursing homes play a crucial role in providing care and assistance to older adults who are unable to live independently. However, in the past, instances of abuse and neglect in nursing homes have raised concerns about the rights and protections afforded to residents. Understanding the rights of nursing home residents is essential for ensuring their safety and quality of life.

The Right to Be Fully Informed

Residents have a right to be informed about all aspects of their care. This includes:

• Knowing about their medical condition and treatment options
• Being informed of all the services available at the facility and their costs
• Receiving the facility's rules and regulations, including a written copy of resident rights
• Being informed of changes in room or roommate situations
• Getting advance notice of plans to discharge or transfer them to another facility

The Right to Participate in Care

Residents are not merely recipients of care; they have the right to participate in their care plan actively. They should be involved in all aspects of their care, including:

• Participating in planning their care and treatment
• Making decisions, including refusing treatment
• Choosing their physician
• Having access to their medical records

The Right to Privacy and Confidentiality

Nursing home residents have the right to privacy regarding both their personal and medical affairs. This includes:

• Confidentiality in medical treatment and care
• Privacy during personal care tasks
• Private and unrestricted communication with any person of their choosing

The Right to Dignity, Respect, and Freedom

Nursing homes are required to treat all residents with dignity and respect. Residents have the right to:

• Be free from any physical, mental, or sexual abuse
• Be free from physical or chemical restraints unless prescribed by a physician for a limited time
• Be treated with respect for their personal property

The Right to Make Independent Choices

Residents have the right to make choices about their lives in the nursing home, such as:

• Choosing what activities to participate in
• Making personal decisions about their daily routine and care
• Managing their financial affairs

The Right to Voice Grievances

Residents have the right to voice their concerns or complaints without fear of discrimination or reprisal. This includes:

• Presenting grievances to staff or any other person, without fear of reprisal and with prompt efforts by the facility to resolve those grievances
• Filing a complaint with the state survey and certification agency

Contact The Law Offices of John M. McCabe

If you believe these rights have been violated, contact a nursing home abuse lawyer immediately. At The Law Offices of John M. McCabe, we're committed to protecting the rights and dignity of nursing home residents. If you need help advocating for a loved one or understanding these rights, we are here to assist you. Ensuring the safety, dignity, and quality of life of nursing home residents is our top priority.