Only about 5 percent of Americans aged 65 and older live in nursing homes at any given time, but researchers estimate that older Americans have about a 40 percent chance of spending at least some time in a nursing home. Many people dread the prospect of living in a nursing home because of the loss of privacy and dignity. Be aware, though, that people don't check their rights and privileges at the door when they enter a nursing home. The federal Nursing Home Reform Amendments of 1987, and corresponding state laws, protect residents in nearly all-nursing facilities. Federal law requires that nursing homes meet strong basic standards for the quality of life of each resident and for the provision of services and activities.
Most states operate local or regional programs with local paid or volunteer ombudsman staff.
Residents and family members often find these go-betweens to be essential partners in resolving problems. Federal law requires nursing homes to allow the ombudsman access to residents and access to resident records. Written information about the services available under the basic rate and any extra charges for extra services. Advance notice of changes in room assignment or roommate. Upon request, latest facility-inspection results and any plan of correction submitted to state officials.