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A Celebration of Resident’s Rights

Residents’ Rights Month is celebrated each October and is designated by the National Consumer Voice to honor residents living in all long-term care facilities and those receiving care in their home or community.  It is an opportunity to focus on and celebrate the dignity and rights of every individual receiving long-term services and supports.   It is also a time to reflect on the importance of the Nursing Home Reform Law of 1987 that promises quality of life, quality of care, and rights for each resident. 

Residents’ Rights Month originated as Residents’ Rights Week in 1981 at the Consumer Voice annual meeting.  Several nursing home residents in attendance from across the US decided it would be special for all residents if time was set aside to celebrate residents and their rights. In 2011, Residents’ Rights Week was expanded to Residents’ Rights Month.  This expansion provides additional time for residents/facility staff, family members, community advocates and ombudsmen to conduct educational programs and festive events to call attention to this important topic.  

Residents have the right to self-determination and to use their voice to make their own choices.  This year’s Residents’ Rights Month theme, The Power of My Voice, emphasizes self-empowerment and recognizes the power of residents being vocal about their interests, personal growth, and right to live full, enriching lives. 

Celebrate and acknowledge these rights by participating in Residents’ Rights Month events and by calling on your elected officials, community members and local facilities to show their support. 

As the Missouri Coalition for Quality Care (MCQC) celebrates Residents’ Rights Month, we encourage community members to connect with those they know who live in long-term care facilities, participate in Residents’ Rights Month events, or inquire about becoming a volunteer long-term care ombudsman.  Your assistance and attention help to ensure that the voices of long-term care residents do not go unheard and demonstrates to residents that they have not been forgotten.  

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