SPRING CAN BE VERY APPEALING to our senses…the warmth of the sun, the sounds of chirping birds, the smell of fresh rain, the beauty of flowers. We may find ourselves wanting to spend more time outdoors. This idea highlights two very important resident rights.
Did you know that residents of nursing homes have the right of access to assistance if sensory impairments exist? For example, Mrs. Smith is hard of hearing and she can’t enjoy the sounds of spring like she could when she was younger. She asks facility staff to speak to her near her “good ear.” Through conversation, she discloses that she wishes she had a hearing aid. What should happen next? The nursing manager at the facility should be made aware of Mrs. Smith’s request. The facility should initiate the process of obtaining a hearing aid for Mrs. Smith and provide her feedback regarding the timeframe and next steps. Communication is essential.
Through speaking with Mrs. Smith, you also learn that she used to be a member of a garden club and enjoyed tending to flowers and misses this in her life. Did you know that residents have the right to participate in social, religious, and community activities both inside and outside of the facility? This should be reported to the activity director. The activity director should follow up with Mrs. Smith and determine how to meet this need. Doing so is a federal requirement and significantly adds to Mrs. Smith’s quality of life.
If you know a nursing home resident who is having difficulty getting access to activities that enrich their lives, getting assistance that allows them to fully benefit from these activities, or incorporating their preferences in their care, an Ombudsman can help!
Each state is designated by the federal government to implement a Long-Term-Care-Ombudsman Program. The representatives of the Ombudsman Program work with the consumers of long-term-care services to advocate for their individual rights. We advocate for consumers in nursing homes, assisted livings, and group homes, and for those receiving home-care services.
Our regional team serves 17 counties in Ohio and provides services free of charge. Our work would not be possible without our team of certified volunteers. Ombudsmen Volunteers serve a very important role in residents’ lives. Our volunteers visit with residents regularly and assist as needed to advocate on their behalf. Through advocacy, our volunteers help ensure resident rights are being upheld as well as their quality of life.
For more information about receiving services or volunteering with our program, please call 419-259-2891.
Lori Davis is Region 4 Volunteer Coordinator for the Ombudsman office.
