Dear Editor,

October is National Long-Term Care Residents’ Rights Month, a time to call attention to the rights of people living in nursing homes and assisted living residences. This is an opportunity to raise awareness of dignity, respect and the rights of each resident.

The federal Nursing Home Reform Law guarantees residents’ rights and places a strong emphasis on individual dignity, choice, and self-determination. The law also requires nursing homes to “promote and protect the rights of each resident”.

Volunteer advocates are needed to work alongside Ombudsman staff to promote residents’ rights, assist residents with complaints, and provide information to those who need to find a long-term care home. Your regional Ombudsman office, which services Belmont, Carroll, Coshocton, Guernsey, Harrison, Holmes, Jefferson, Muskingum, and Tuscarawas counties, is located at 108 N 2nd Street in Dennison. To learn more about how to become an advocate in our region, call 330-364-3465 or visit www.dhad.org/elder-rights.

Amanda Glenaman

State Long-Term Care Ombudsman

Dennison, Ohio