Dear Editor,

Every October, communities across the country recognize National Long-Term Care Residents’ Rights Month, honoring the 1.3 million individuals who live in nursing homes, assisted living, and other residential care settings, while bringing attention to the rights that protect them.

It serves as a powerful reminder that residents deserve more than basic care. The federal Nursing Home Reform Law guarantees a set of rights that promote dignity, choice, and a meaningful quality of life — rights that do not fade with age.

In celebration of this year’s theme, “Stand with Me,” the State Office of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman has launched the Ohio Residents’ Rights Council. This quarterly virtual forum gives more than 900 nursing home resident council presidents the opportunity to share their perspectives, experiences, and ideas to strengthen life in long-term care communities.

The Region 9 Long-Term Care Ombudsman program sponsored by Direction Home Akron/Canton, proudly serves Holmes, Coshocton, Muskingum, Tuscarawas, Guernsey, Carroll, Jefferson, Harrison, and Belmont counties, and is honored to support this initiative. Our dedicated ombudsmen work diligently each day to advocate for residents by resolving complaints, educating individuals about their rights, and offering guidance to Ohioans seeking long-term care. Through the integration of local advocacy efforts and a statewide forum for connection, the new council guarantees that the voices of Ohio’s residents play a central role in shaping the future of long-term care.

Our program serves individuals in nearly 100 facilities across our nine-county region. As we celebrate Residents’ Rights Month, I encourage neighbors, families, and community members to reach out to residents they know, participate in events, or consider becoming a volunteer long-term care ombudsman. By actively supporting long-term care residents, we show them they are valued members of our community.

If you or someone you know could benefit from these free services, you can reach your local Long-Term Care Ombudsman at 1-800-967-0615 or email OMBforms@dhad.org.

Julie Esack

Canton