Key rights, in plain English
Section 429.28 of the Florida Statutes lists residents' rights [1]. Among them:
- Dignity and privacy, and freedom to practice her religion and take part in community activities.
- Visitors: unrestricted private communication, including receiving visitors at any reasonable hour, and at a minimum from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- Her money and things: to manage her own financial affairs unless she or her representative authorizes the facility to help.
- Notice before a move-out: at least 45 days' written notice of relocation or termination of residency, except in a medical emergency or when her conduct endangers others. The notice must say she may contact the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman.
- A grievance procedure: the facility must have one, and she may present grievances without fear of retaliation.
- Posted notices: the facility must post the ombudsman's and abuse hotline's contact information.
Facilities may not retaliate against a resident for exercising these rights.
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman: free help
Florida's Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program advocates for residents of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, adult family-care homes, and continuing care retirement communities. Its help is free and confidential. Call 1-888-831-0404 [2].
If you suspect abuse or neglect
Call the Florida Abuse Hotline at 1-800-962-2873. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911.
Read the contract
Before move-in, read the residency contract for fees, care-level increases, notice terms, refunds, and what happens if needs change. If anything is unclear, ask an elder law attorney.