Federal law requires all nursing homes to protect the rights of each resident when it concerns their dignity and self-determination.  This especially applies to those homes that receive federal funds.  Nursing home abuse and neglect reports surfaced in high numbers during the 1980s.  Congress passed the Nursing Home Reform Act in 1987.

 

Under the Nursing Home Reform Act, “residents must receive quality care from the nursing home that will help them reach and maintain their highest possible physical, mental and psychosocial well-being.”  It also established a standard for care for individuals residing in these homes.  It also provides for inspectors to make unannounced visits and interview residents if they see it necessary.  The Act provides residents to receive regular evaluations, complete nursing services, pharmaceutical care, rehabilitation and dietary services – to name a few.

 

Most importantly, it states that nursing home residents have the right to be free from abuse, neglect, physical restraints and overall mistreatment.  They have the right to communicate freely.

 

If you have a loved one that is a resident of a nursing home, please make sure that both you and the loved one are familiar with the Nursing Home Reform Act and the rights provided under it.  If you or your loved one is being abused, please contact an Elder Abuse Attorney as soon as possible.  No one should have to suffer abuse or neglect.