October is National Long-Term Care Residents’ Rights Month, an annual event to honor individuals living in long-term care facilities and those receiving care in their home and call attention to their rights.
It is an opportunity to focus on the dignity, respect, and quality of life experienced by each individual receiving long-term care services and supports.
The federal Nursing Home Reform Law guarantees these rights and places strong emphasis on individual choice and self-determination. Residents’ Rights Month is a time to raise awareness of these rights.
This year’s Residents’ Rights Month theme, Join Us at the Table, highlights the central role that food, mealtime, and community play in residents’ daily lives.
Food is not only essential to residents’ health, it extends beyond that. Food is comfort, culture, identity, and connection – a daily experience that shapes dignity and quality of life.
Individuals receiving long-term care should be encouraged this month, and always, to voice their preferences regarding food and other care needs. It is their right.
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program at the Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc. serves older and disabled Ohioans receiving long-term care living in Ashland, Crawford, Huron, Knox, Marion, Morrow, Richland, Seneca, and Wyandot counties.
Ombudsmen empower, educate, and advocate for individuals to have a voice in their care and to have care concerns resolved.
If you or your loved one has a concern or question about long-term care, you can reach your local Ombudsman Program at 800-860-5799 or ombudsmangroup@aaa5ohio.org
Beverly Tatro
Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program Director
Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging, Inc.