If your loved one lives in an assisted living facility or a nursing home, it is important for caregivers to know their rights as family members - and the rights of their loved one living there.  The federal government has many rules and regulations that these facilities must follow.  Each state then has additional rules and regulations that these facilities must follow.  This information is made public through the state department of health.  These facilities are also required to provide the residents/families a copy of the Resident Rights document, which is a list of your rights and can also be accessed through the state department of health. 

The social worker at the assisted living facility or nursing home is the liaison between the facility and the residents/families.  They are also to be an advocate for resident rights.  It is important for family members to educate themselves on the rules and regulations of these facilities.  If you feel the facility personnel is not working with you properly, outside assistance can be helpful.  Each community has an ombudsman, who is an advocate for people living in the residential facility.  They are employed by the state and usually work out of the Area Agency on Aging office.  To find your local ombudsman, contact your local Area Agency on Aging. 

A professional health care manager is also a good resource to utilize as an advocate and 3rd party when working with a residential facility.  Education and advocacy is a powerful asset for family members and seniors.