Know the Rights of Marco Island Assisted Living Residents
Making the transition to an assisted living facility is not always easy. People who were used to being able to live on their own and manage their own affairs have to get used to having everything taken care of for them. The state of Florida protects the rights of Marco Island residents. The state has laws in place that are designed to allow assisted living residents to live with dignity and respect. An elder law attorney can assist any family that is reaching the point of having to put a loved one into an assisted living facility.
The Rights Of An Assisted Living Resident
When an individual becomes an assisted living resident, they do not lose any of the federal or state rights they had before entering the facility. However, they do become covered by a second set of rights. These rights have been established by the federal and state governments to protect vulnerable people in an assisted living situation.
The Right To Communication
A person in assisted living has the right to private conversation. They also have the right to maintain their religious and civil liberties. Assisted living residents have the right to suggest changes to their facility that would improve care. They have the right to express concerns without fear of retribution by the facility.
Assisted living residents have the right to organize resident groups within their facilities. They can participate in any type of group activity that does no infringe on the rights of others. An assisted living resident also has the right to be informed of all ongoing and special events at their facility. Either in writing or through verbal communication.
Personal Affairs
Assisted living residents have the right to maintain their own financial affairs, and they also have the right to review the previous state inspection reports for the facility they live in. Residents are entitled to privacy with their medical care and personal hygiene needs, and they have the right to live in dignity without the fear of physical, psychological, or emotional abuse.
Lifestyle Changes
Federal law prevents assisted living facilities from transferring patients to new facilities except in instances where:
- The current facility closes
- The current facility can no longer properly care for the resident
- The resident’s safety or well-being is in jeopardy
- The resident’s bills associated with residency and care have not been paid
When you or someone you live is preparing to move into an assisted living facility, the process can seem confusing. Contact our firm and allow us to go over the different rights you will have as an assisted living facility resident. Our elder law lawyers will inform you on the type of activities you will be legally allowed to enjoy during your stay.