What Concerns Does An Ombudsman Address?

Violation of residents’ rights or dignity
Physical, verbal or mental abuse, deprivation of services necessary to maintain residents’ physical and mental health, or unreasonable confinement
Poor quality of care, including inadequate personal hygiene and slow response to requests for assistance
Improper transfer or discharge of patient
Inappropriate use of chemical or physical restraints
Any resident concern about quality of care or quality of life

What are Residents’ Rights?

The right of citizenship. Nursing home residents do not lose any of their rights of citizenship, including the right to vote, to religious freedom and to associate with whom they choose.
The right to dignity. Residents of nursing homes are honored guests and have the right to be so treated.
The right to privacy. Nursing home residents have the right to privacy whenever possible, including the right to privacy with their spouse, the right to have their medical and personal records treated in confidence, and the right to private, uncensored communication.
The right to personal property. Nursing home residents have the right to possess and use personal property and to manage their financial affairs.
The right to information. Nursing home residents have the right to information, including the regulations of the home and the costs for services rendered. They also have the right to participate in decisions about any treatment, including the right to refuse treatment.
The right of freedom. Nursing home residents have the right to be free from mental or physical abuse and from physical or chemical restraint unless ordered by their physician.
The right to care. Residents have the right to equal care, treatment and services provided by the facility without discrimination.
The right of residence. Nursing home residents have the right to live at the home unless they violate publicized regulations. They may not be discharged without timely and proper notification to both the resident and the family or guardian.
The right of expression. Nursing home residents have the right to exercise their rights, including the right to file complaints and grievances without fear or reprisal.

Who Can Use an Ombudsman’s Services?

Residents of any nursing home or board and care facility, including assisted living facilities
A family member or friend of a nursing home resident
A nursing home administrator or employee with a concern about a resident at their facility
Any individual or citizen’s group interested in the welfare of residents
Individuals and families who are considering long-term care placement

Source: http://www.ltcombudsman.org/

Contact the DAAA Long-Term Care Ombudsman, Ms. Faiza Najar, at (313) 446-4444