Understanding Residents’ Rights in Long-Term Care

Every person living in a long-term care facility deserves to be treated with dignity, respect, and compassion. Federal law guarantees these fundamental protections through the Residents’ Rights outlined in the Nursing Home Reform Law, ensuring that all residents have control over their care, privacy, and quality of life. These rights form the foundation of quality care, providing residents with the assurance that their voices will be heard and respected.

Residents’ Rights include the right to:

• Be treated with dignity and respect.
• Make personal choices about daily routines, care, and treatment.
• Participate in decisions about their care and express preferences.
• Raise concerns or file complaints without fear of retaliation.
• Manage personal finances and property.
• Have privacy in communication, visits, and personal matters.
• Be informed about transfers or discharges, and to appeal decisions.
• These protections ensure that residents are not only safe but also empowered to live with purpose, independence, and self-determination.

The Ombudsman Program works every day to uphold and defend these rights. Our trained and state-certified Ombudsmen conduct unannounced visits to facilities, listen to residents’ concerns, and assist in resolving complaints related to care, safety, and quality of life. They also educate families and facility staff about residents’ rights to ensure that every resident is treated with fairness, dignity, and respect.

When violations occur, such as improper discharge, neglect, or loss of personal freedom, Ombudsmen step in to investigate and advocate for resolution. Every action taken is confidential, compassionate, and guided by the belief that residents deserve to live free from fear and neglect.

Understanding residents’ rights is the first step toward protecting them. The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care offers a range of helpful resources, including the full Residents’ Rights Fact Sheet and educational materials specifically designed for residents, their families, and caregivers.

You can explore these materials and download the 2025 Resident’s Rights Fact Sheet.

Contact our office today to ask questions, voice concerns, or learn how you can champion residents’ rights in Ventura County long-term care facilities. Join us in advocating for dignity, safety, and respect for every Ventura County resident. Take action today to support positive change.