Glossary
Nursing Home Bill of Rights
Definition
A federal set of rights guaranteed to residents of Medicare- and Medicaid-certified nursing homes, including dignity, privacy, freedom from abuse, and the right to participate in care decisions.
Established by the federal Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987, the resident's bill of rights includes: the right to be informed of care; the right to refuse treatment; the right to privacy; freedom from physical or chemical restraint used for staff convenience; the right to manage personal funds; and the right to voice grievances without retaliation.
Every state also runs a Long-Term Care Ombudsman program where residents and families can report concerns.
Related terms
- Assisted Living — A residential setting that provides housing, meals, personal care, and 24-hour supervision for seniors who need help with daily tasks but don't need skilled medical care.
- Memory Care — A specialized type of assisted living for people with Alzheimer's, dementia, or other cognitive impairment — with secured units, higher staffing ratios, and dementia-trained caregivers.
Sources
Sandwich is a directory and information site. This glossary is not legal, medical, or financial advice. For decisions that affect your family, consult a licensed professional. Editorial policy.
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