October is Residents’ Rights Month

This month, long-term care facilities across the country are celebrating Residents’ Rights Month, bringing awareness to and celebrating the dignity, respect, and value of each individual resident.This year’s theme is “My Voice, My Vote, My Right” which encourages residents to vote and participate in the political process.

Residents’ Right Month is celebrated annually each October and is designated by the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care (also known as the “Consumer Voice”). According to the Consumer Voice website, it is 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.

During this month, residents are encouraged to think about and respond to questions such as:

What was the most memorable election you voted in and why?
What does it mean to be politically active?
Why is it important for you to have the right and ability to vote?

The Consumer Voice wants us to help spread the word that residents of long-term care facilities have the right to participate in the American political process. They do not lose their right to vote because of where they live. The Consumer Voice asks us to work together to give long-term care residents access to voting and to encourage them to particiate. We all benefit from residents having a voice.