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  3. The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program: Protecting the Rights of Residents

The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program: Protecting the Rights of Residents

Your Long-Term Care Ombudsman

Every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Guam has an advocate, called a Long-Term Care Ombudsman, for residents of nursing homes, board and care and assisted living facilities, and similar residential care facilities. Ombudsman programs work to resolve problems affecting residents’ health, safety, welfare, and rights. Residents, their families, and others have the right to contact their local Ombudsman program to help them understand their rights, learn about community resources, and work through problems.

You can find your local Ombudsman program online or call 800-677-1116.

Understanding the Rights of Nursing Home Residents 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 1.4 million older adults and people with disabilities live in nursing homes. If a nursing home participates in Medicare or Medicaid – and most do – it must meet requirements “to promote and protect the rights of each resident.” 

This means that each nursing home must care for its residents in a way that enhances the quality of life of each resident, respects their dignity, and ensures they are able to make choices for themselves. 

Established by federal law, the “Residents’ Bill of Rights,” states that if you live in a nursing home, you are entitled to rights including the following:

  • The right to be fully informed in a language that you understand of all aspects of your residency.
  • The right to participate in all aspects of your care.
  • The right to make independent choices based on your needs and preferences.
  • The right to privacy and confidentiality.
  • The right to safe and appropriate transfer and discharge, including the right to appeal decisions.
  • The right to visits from friends, family, providers and other people of your choosing.
  • The right to participate in social, religious, and community activities.
  • The right to organize and participate in resident groups (often called resident councils).
  • The right to complain without fear of repercussions. 
  • The right to be free from discrimination.
  • The right to be free from abuse, neglect, and restraints.
  • The right to adequate medical care and treatment.
  • The right to get information about alternatives to nursing homes.

Some states have laws and regulations that establish additional rights for nursing home residents. Some states also guarantee a similar set of rights for people who live in assisted living and similar settings.

Additional Resources


Last modified on 10/16/2019


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