October is Residents’ Rights Month, an annual event designated by The National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care to honor those living in long-term care facilities and those receiving assistance in their homes or communities.
It is an opportunity to focus on and celebrate the dignity and rights of every individual receiving prolonged services and supports.
Residents have the right to self-determination and to use their voices to make their own choices. This year’s theme, “Stand With Me,” highlights the importance of solidarity and support for individuals who stand up and advocate for their rights, as well as the value of encouraging the community to join them in sharing their views.
During Residents’ Rights Month, we recognize our local Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program staff and volunteers, who work to promote residents’ rights, assist with complaints and provide information to those who need to find a location. This initiative includes facility-assigned, community-based and volunteer ombudspersons who work in Delaware nursing homes, assisted-living sites, group homes and the state at large. To contact the program, call 855-773-1002.
The Delaware Division of Health Care Quality, within the Department of Health and Social Services, is responsible for protecting individuals in long-term care facilities through the promotion of quality of care, quality of life, safety and security, and enforcement of compliance with state and federal laws. To get in touch with the division, call 877-453-0012.
In addition, the Delaware Nursing Home Residents Quality Assurance Commission is an advocacy group that monitors nursing homes and assisted-living facilities for quality of care, quality of life and safety. To contact the commission, email drpc@delaware.gov or call 302-836-2133.
Lisa Furber
Chair, Delaware Nursing Home Residents Quality Assurance Commission
Margaret Bailey
Executive director, Delaware Nursing Home Residents Quality Assurance Commission
Reader reactions, pro or con, are welcomed at civiltalk@iniusa.org.
