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Rights of Families of Residents in Senior Living: What You Need to Know

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4 min
Rights of Families of Residents in Seniors' Residences

Making the decision to move a loved one into senior living is often a process that raises many questions and concerns. Families play a crucial role in the well-being of seniors, acting as both protectors and intermediaries between the resident and the senior living. It is therefore essential for families to be aware of their rights in order to actively participate in the life of their loved ones in the senior living. Here is what you need to know about the rights of families of residents in senior living. 

The Right to Complete and Transparent Information

One of the primary rights of families of residents in senior living is the right to access information. Families must have access to clear and complete information regarding the care of their loved ones, the services provided by the senior living, and any potential changes that may occur over time. 

With the resident’s consent, the family should be kept informed about their loved one’s health progress, the care administered, and any proposed treatments. This ensures a better understanding of the decisions made by the medical staff and remains involved in the care process. Families should also be aware of the services offered by the senior living, including medical care, social activities, meals, and other support services. It is crucial that everything be explained clearly, especially regarding the costs associated with these services. Transparency in the lease is also important to avoid any surprises during the stay. 

Maintaining Clear Communication with the Senior Living

In case of doubt, families have the right to ask questions to the senior living managers and medical teams. They can also request a meeting with the care staff to get clarification on the care provided to their loved one. This helps establish an atmosphere of trust and collaboration, essential for the well-being of the resident. 

The Right to Visit and Stay in Contact with the Resident

Maintaining relationships with loved ones is a key factor in the well-being of residents in senior living. Therefore, families have the right to visit their loved ones without unreasonable restrictions, ensuring a close and ongoing relationship. Senior living must offer flexible visiting hours that meet the needs of families. 

Interactions to Promote Well-Being

In addition to in-person visits, families can also maintain regular contact via phone, video calls or written correspondence if they cannot to be present in person.

The regularity of visits and interactions has a direct impact on the mental and emotional health of residents. The presence and support of loved ones contribute to their well-being and quality of life. 

The Right to Participate in Important Decisions

Families have the right to actively participate in important decisions concerning the life of their loved one in senior living. This right is even more significant if the resident is no longer capable of making informed decisions. 

The Importance of Family Consent

If a resident is unable to make decisions (due to dementia, severe illness, etc.), it is often the family’s responsibility to participate in decision-making regarding healthcare and non-medical matters. Before any medical treatment or change in care, the family must be informed and give their consent if the resident is unable to do so. This ensures that the care and services provided meet the resident’s actual needs.

The Right to Monitor and Report the Quality of Care

Families play an active role in monitoring the quality of care provided to residents. They must ensure that their loved ones receive appropriate care according to their needs, while also ensuring that they are treated with dignity and respect.

Reporting Care Issues: A Right and Responsibility

Families can request information about the care provided to their loved one, visit their room, observe interactions between staff and residents, and ask questions about the practices in place at the senior living.

In case of abuse, neglect, or failure to comply with care standards, families have the right to intervene by filing a complaint with the senior living and relevant authorities. Family vigilance is crucial to ensuring the safety and well-being of their loved one in senior living, guaranteeing a healthy and respectful living environment. 

The Right to a Safe and Appropriate Environment

Families have the right to ensure that their loved one is living in a safe, clean, and suitable environment that meets their physical and cognitive needs.

Ensuring a Healthy and Secure Living Environment for Seniors

Senior living must adhere to strict safety standards, including fire safety, accessibility, and fall prevention. The rooms and common areas must be adapted to the needs of seniors, particularly those with physical or cognitive impairments. Families have the right to request information about the safety measures in place. 

Families can also ensure that hygiene standards are met, whether in meal preparation, general maintenance of the senior living, or personal hygiene care for residents. A healthy and clean environment is essential for the health and well-being of residents.

Well-Being Above All!

The rights of families of residents in senior living are essential to ensure a dignified and respectful living experience for their loved ones. As a family member, knowing and asserting these rights helps ensure that your loved one’s needs are properly met while strengthening the bonds to connect them to their new home. 

At Bonjour Résidences, we understand the importance and emotional involvement of the search for senior living. That’s why we do everything we can to assist families at every step of finding the ideal senior living. With our expertise and our extensive network of senior living, you can be assured that we will guide you to a choice that respects the unique needs of your loved ones. 

By collaborating with us, you are assured that the well-being of your loved ones is our top priority. We work hand in hand with families to find a senior living that combines safety, comfort and respect, so that every resident can thrive in an environment where they are valued and well cared for. Contact us for free at 1 844 918-1020 to speak with one of our senior housing specialists. 

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