THIS MONTH WE WOULD LIKE TO CHAT TO YOU about Resident and Family Councils in long-termcare facilities. Resident and Family Councils are an essential part of advocating for quality care in nursing homes. Each nursing home should have a functioning Resident Council, and each home can also facilitate the formation of Family Councils if family members show an interest and desire in getting together to talk about problems in the nursing home.
The councils are designed to be a safe place to offer suggestions about facility policies and procedures, have discussions about treatment and quality of life, support one another, and plan activities or events. In addition, these councils can be leveraged into any activity or discussion that would serve the residents and improve the lives for all those living in the homes.
Resident’s Rights supports the development of these councils and particularly the sharing of concerns or grievances without the fear of retaliation. In addition, these Resident Councils and Family Councils are a great way to build a network of support during the time in which you or your loved one are living in the facility and create accountability for what happens in the nursing home.
Just like the names of these council’s suggest, Family Councils are comprised of family members, loved ones, friends, or interested persons with a desire to make life better for residents of the nursing home. Similarly, Resident Councils are comprised of residents of the facility who come together to bring issues and concerns to the appropriate departments and staff—in search of solutions for better care.
While most facilities in our area have some sort of Resident Council, the impact, participation, and structure of those councils can differ from place to place. However, although it is an option, many facilities do not have a Family Council in place— but that doesn’t mean one can’t be formed.
If you’re interested in learning more about Family or Resident Council creation, formation, and operation, please reach out to us at the office to learn more. Additionally, if you have questions about the care you or a loved one is receiving, you can contact us to discuss your concerns. You can reach our program at 419-259-2891 or via our Facebook page or new website (ombudsman. ablelaw.org).
Megan Benner Senecal is a member of the Ombudsman Office.
What is a Family or Resident Council, you might ask? Federal regulations for nursing home operations indicate that residents and/or families have the right to mobilize together to work towards quality care.
