Residents in assisted living facilities have many rights. These rights include the right of residents in assisted living facilities to choose their care, the right eat three balanced meals per day, as well as the right to be provided with a service plan tailored to their specific needs. It is possible to make the right decision about your loved one's care by knowing what they are and how you can protect it.
Residents of assisted living have more rights than residents in a nursing home
Residents of assisted living have many rights that residents in nursing homes do not. One of their rights is the ability to make their own decisions about their treatment and care. This includes the option to choose the kind of food they are served and the time they eat. They have the right of participation in care planning meetings and financial decisions.
As a social worker, it is my duty protect residents' rights regardless their gender, race religion or nationality. I am aware of the many challenges that people with dementia face. These include cognitive decline and loss of physical function. They may also experience privacy issues and the loss of former social relationships. There are some residents who experience discrimination based upon their religion, age or sex.
They have the right to make decisions about their care
A resident in an assisted living facility is entitled to many rights and responsibilities. One of those rights is the right to choose their care. This right is essential in many ways. This right should not be limited to assisted living facilities. These rights must be respected by residents who should be free to express their opinions. This includes the right to write letters, use their personal phones, and receive mail. Caregivers need to respect the wishes of residents and not invade their privacy. Residents should also be informed of any changes to their care plans.
A resident has the rights to review medical records, get advance notice of transfers or discharges, as well as access to records. They should receive copies of these records within one working day of their request. They should also be able to participate in resident group participation.
They are entitled to three nutritiously balanced meals per day
A meal plan should meet the nutritional needs of residents. This is not an easy task as different residents might have different food preferences. It is important to account for cultural differences, religious preferences, physical conditions, and allergies. The menus should include a variety of food options.
Although the attending physician must approve all therapeutic diets, the physician may delegate this responsibility on occasion to a licensed Dietitian. Each state has its own laws and regulations. Each resident can have three meals per day.
They are entitled to a service program that best suits their needs
A service plan outlines the services that a resident may receive. A service plan should reflect the individual needs and preferences. Residents should be allowed to choose the services that they want, and how they prefer them. Before deciding on a service plan, residents should be able discuss issues with their providers.
Many assisted living facilities have adopted NRAs and some states are considering making them a mandatory regulatory requirement. NRAs promote open, documented conversations that allow providers to better understand residents' needs and help them avoid restricting their choices.