What Are The Standards For Nursing Home Care?

Every state has different regulations that apply to Long-Term Care Facilities / Nursing Homes and every state defines abuse differently. However, the majority of states have similar Resident Rights Policies which apply to those individuals residing in nursing homes. For example, in New Jersey, there are Mandatory Resident Rights which include, but are not limited to the following:

· To be free from physical and mental abuse and/or neglect;

· To live in safe, decent, and clean conditions in a nursing home that does not admit more residents than it can safely accommodate while providing adequate nursing care;

· To be treated with courtesy, consideration, and respect for the resident’s dignity and individuality;

· To voice complaints without being threatened or punished. Each resident is entitled to complain and present his or her grievances to the nursing home administrator and staff, to government agencies, and to anyone else without fear of interference, discharge or reprisal

Additionally, the Nursing Home is often required to provide residents a copy of their Resident Rights Policy upon admission which may either mirror the state requirements or may include additional rights. It is important for residents and their families to retain this Residents Rights Policy. Nursing homes are required to provide and ensure that these rights are afforded to their residents.

If you fear abuse or neglect is occurring in a nursing home, take action. We must try to ensure the proper care and treatment of our elderly population by those individuals we have entrusted with these responsibilities.