Ensuring nursing home residents can access and receive information in a language they understand is essential for promoting informed decision making and high-quality care.
Nursing home regulations state that residents have the right to language assistance services if needed. This right is reinforced throughout the regulations. While a recent executive order was issued declaring English the official language of the United States, this right has not changed.
The regulations specifically require that nursing home residents who do not speak English or who have limited English proficiency be provided language assistance.
Some examples include:
- The right to be informed of and participate in treatment in a language that the resident can understand. (483.10(c)(1))
- The right to be informed of resident rights and the rules governing resident conduct and responsibilities in a language that residents can understand. (483.10(g))
- The right for the resident (or their representative) to be notified before transfer or discharge, in writing, in a language the resident can understand. (483.15(c)(3))
If you, or someone you know, is not receiving this assistance, reach out to your long-term care Ombudsman program and share your story with the Consumer Voice. You can additionally file a complaint with your state survey agency.
