As a caregiver or support for your loved one, taking time from your life to navigate the legal rights of older adults can be daunting. Many families are unaware of the protections available for their loved ones, which can lead to waste, loss and even unintentional neglect or mistreatment. Understanding these rights is crucial to ensuring your elderly loved one receives the care and respect they deserve. Remember dignity is for everyone regardless of age, creed or number of medical problems.
Key Legal Rights to Know
- Right to Quality Care: Older adults have the right to receive care that meets established standards, including adequate nutrition, hygiene, and medical attention. Don’t accept that your loved one is not eligible to receive care because of their age.
- Right to Privacy and Dignity: Your loved one is entitled to privacy in their care and the dignity of being treated with respect. You should always step back and consider the information you're sharing about your loved one, even in family circles. The health information of your loved one is their private information. Think, ‘If he/she was telling this story would they share this part with anyone?’ Protecting information that protects your loved one’s dignity is their right regardless of decision-making capacity. Health professionals who care for your loved one only need the health information that helps them care for your loved one.
- Right to Make Decisions: Older adults retain the right to make decisions about their care, including the choice of caregivers and treatment options. If the doctor or the courts deem that your loved one's decision-making capacity is unsafe due to cognitive issues, then the right advocate will be called on to help. It may be you, if your loved one assigned you the role of health care proxy, or you are the next of kin.
- Right to Be Free from Abuse: Older individuals must be and are protected against all forms of abuse, including physical, emotional, and financial exploitation.
Why It Matters
Understanding these legal rights empowers families to advocate for their loved ones effectively. At WPNSCareSync, we help families navigate the complexities of elder care, ensuring that your loved one’s rights are upheld. Book a consultation today and learn how we can support your family’s journey.
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