As October comes to a close, our community reflects on the importance of Residents’ Rights Month — an annual tradition led by the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care, or Consumer Voice, to raise awareness of the dignity, respect, and self-determination of long-term care residents. While October has been set aside to spotlight these crucial rights, ensuring respect and empowerment for residents is a commitment that should continue throughout the year.
This year’s theme, “The Power of My Voice,” emphasizes the importance of self-empowerment for residents, encouraging them to express their preferences, advocate for their personal growth, and pursue fulfilling lives. Lori Smetanka, executive director of Consumer Voice, said that resident voices are central to decision- making in care settings.
“Residents’ voices are the most important at the decision-making table,” Smetanka said. “This year’s theme empowers them to express their likes and dislikes and passionately pursue the lives they wish to lead.”
The Nursing Home Reform Law of 1987 guarantees that nursing home residents across the United States retain specific rights, including personalized care, respect, privacy, and freedom to make choices about their daily lives.
This law also ensures that residents of other facilities, such as assisted living and residential care facilities, continue to enjoy their rights as American citizens.
Residents’ Rights Month is dedicated to reminding us of these protections and recognizing the unique contributions of those who call these facilities home. Working year-round, the National Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program supports these rights, providing advocacy and guidance for longterm care residents and their families. With more than 4,200 volunteers and 1,400 paid staff across all 50 states, Washington, D.C., Guam, and Puerto Rico, this program — authorized under the Older Americans Act — advocates for residents, educates communities, and offers support for families navigating long-term care options.
As we move beyond October, let’s continue to honor the voices of longterm care residents in our community, acknowledging their rights to self-determination, respect, and a dignified quality of life.
If you have questions or concerns regarding a resident in a long-term care facility, contact Cherrie Nutley, long-term care ombudsman supervisor for the southwest area, at 580-562-5032.
