Ohio recognizes Residents’ Rights Month, honoring long-term care residents and their voices

COLUMBUS, Ohio - October is Residents' Rights Month, a recognition that raises awareness about the rights of long-term care facility residents and reaffirms Ohio's commitment to ensuring all residents live with dignity, free from neglect and abuse.

Residents Rights Month is being celebrated this October through a proclamation issued by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jon Husted as well as the Ohio Department of Aging and Ohio's Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman.

The annual recognition provides an opportunity for family members, Ombudsman advocates, citizens, facility staff, and others to promote the dignity, respect, and value of those receiving long-term care and services. It also serves as a reminder to those living in a long-term care facility to learn about and exercise their rights.

"The Ohio Department of Aging has continued to make residents' rights a priority in 2024," said ODA Director Ursel J. McElroy. "By launching Ohio's Nursing Home Quality Navigator, increasing funding provided to the state and regional offices of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman, and creating the landmark new EXCEL Academy technical assistance program for nursing homes, ODA has shown the value it places on residents' rights. Our department remains committed to making excellence the expectation for every long-term care facility in Ohio."

Residents of long-term care facilities have a variety of rights protected by law, including but not limited to the right to make independent choices, the right to respect, and the right to present grievances. The theme of Residents Rights' Month 2024, as selected by the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care, is "The Power of My Voice." That theme underscores the significance of residents' right to self-determination and their ability to make choices about their care.

"When residents and their families understand their rights, they are better equipped to advocate for the care they deserve." said Leilani Pelletier, Ohio's Long-Term Care Ombudsman. "I encourage residents to become familiar with their rights and speak up if they feel those rights are being violated. Ohio's Ombudsmen are ready to assist and support at any point along the way."

Residents' Rights Month also emphasizes the essential role of the Long-Term Care Ombudsmen, who advocate on behalf of residents to safeguard their rights and promote a higher standard of care.

The State Long-Term Care Ombudsman program provides crucial advocacy by mediating disputes, addressing concerns, and educating residents and staff on fostering a culture of respect and quality care. Currently, more than 250 Ombudsmen advocate for Ohioans receiving long-term care and services in facility and home-based settings across the state.

"The role of an Ombudsman is to be a voice for those who need it most - whether by providing information or to resolve concerns," said Pelletier.

To learn more about advocating for long-term care residents or to contact your regional Long-Term Care Ombudsman program, please visit ombudsman.ohio.gov or call the Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman at 1-800-282-1206

For more information about Residents' Rights Month, click here.

About ODA - The Ohio Department of Aging serves and advocates for the needs of Ohioans age 60 and older, as well as their families, caregivers and communities. Programs include home and community based long-term supports and services, as well as initiatives to promote health and wellness throughout the lifespan. Visit aging.ohio.gov.

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