The Power of My Voice: Residents’ Rights Month

Did you know that three out of four Americans over the age of 65 will need long-term care at some point in their lives? That’s a significant majority, making it more important than ever to understand the rights of individuals in long-term care facilities.

The Nursing Home Reform Law, passed in 1987, guarantees essential rights to those in long-term care, including the right to personalized care, respect, and dignity; the right to visitation; privacy; the ability to voice concerns; and the freedom to make independent choices. These rights are crucial for ensuring that individuals receive the care and respect they deserve.

This October, the County of Los Angeles celebrates Residents’ Rights Month with the theme “The Power of My Voice,” highlighting the importance of self-advocacy and the empowerment of residents in care facilities. Everyone involved—whether current or future residents, family members, friends, advocates, or professional caregivers—must be aware of these rights and understand their significance.

Recognizing the need for heightened awareness, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors passed a motion by Chair Lindsey P. Horvath and Supervisor Kathryn Barger, officially proclaiming October as Residents’ Rights Month in Los Angeles County.

The Adult Protective Services branch of the LA County Aging & Disabilities Department is part of a larger network working to protect these rights. This network includes ombudsmen, advocates, caregivers, and families, all committed to safeguarding the dignity and independence of individuals in long-term care. The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program (LTCOP), for instance, plays a vital role in advocating for the quality of life of older residents in out-of-home care, serving as a voice for both residents and their families.

California is home to over 400,000 individuals living in 1,230 licensed long-term care facilities, nearly 400 of which are located in Los Angeles County. These facilities are a key part of our healthcare system, making it essential that residents’ rights are upheld and respected.

For those in care—or those considering it—the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care provides an invaluable online resource, offering information and support on how to protect and assert these rights. Additionally, this infographic by the Administration for Community Living, highlights the rights of people living in nursing homes, and other residential facilities.

This Residents’ Rights Month let’s remember that self-determination and dignity are not just ideals—they are fundamental human rights. Your voice has the power to make a difference.