Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program

🌷 Resident Spotlight 🌷

Meet Barbara, who at 97 years young continues to inspire us all with her strength, grace, and love of life. 💕

We are so lucky to celebrate and honor Barbara! 💐💛

#ResidentSpotlight #LTCResident #RISLTCOP #RhodeIsland

Did you know residents in long-term care have the right to refuse care?

That includes medications, treatments, and services. Informed consent isn’t optional. It’s a right.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentsRightsMonth #ConsentMatters #ElderAutonomy #RhodeIslandAdvocacy

📅 Reminder: RISLTCOP Zoom Meeting – Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 7 PM

Residents, families, and caregivers are invited to ask questions and learn more about residents’ rights and the Ombudsman Program.

Join the conversation—your voice matters.

🔗 Register here: bit.ly/riltcopzoomreg

#RISLTCOP #ZoomWithUs

What is an Ombudsman?

We’re advocates, listeners, and problem-solvers who visit long-term care facilities to ensure residents’ rights are protected.

If something doesn’t feel right, we’re here to help—confidentially, respectfully, and without judgment.

#RISLTCOP #WhoWeAre #OmbudsmanExplained

🌸 Resident Spotlight 🌸

Today, we celebrate Irene Michelle, who just turned 91 years young, surrounded by the love of her family! Her joyful spirit and great sense of humor continue to inspire everyone around her.

Please join us in wishing Irene a very Happy 91st Birthday!

#ResidentSpotlight

October is Residents’ Rights Month, a time to reflect on dignity, autonomy, and advocacy in long-term care. Every resident deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.

Let’s recommit to listening, speaking up, and ensuring every right is upheld.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentsRightsMonth #ElderAdvocacy

🌟 Resident Spotlight: Helen B 🌟

Meet Helen, a remarkable woman who just celebrated her 102nd birthday! 🎉 Although she was born in Ohio, Helen grew up right here in Providence and still feels as young as 60 at heart.

Please join us in celebrating Helen’s incredible life and wisdom! 💙💛

Resident councils give long-term care communities a voice.

From suggesting new activities to raising concerns, they create space for collaboration and empowerment.

If your facility has one, get involved.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentLeadership #ResidentCouncils #CommunityInCare #RhodeIslandAdvocacy

As seasons change, so do needs.

Cooler weather can affect mobility, comfort, and routines. It’s a good time to revisit your loved one’s plans and ask: “Is this still working for you?”

Advocacy includes seasonal awareness.

#RISLTCOP #SeasonalCare #ResidentComfort #AutumnInCare #RhodeIslandLTC

Dino Russo is a passionate voice for human rights whose life experiences have shaped both his purpose and his vision.

With his unwavering commitment to uplifting others and creating a more just community, Dino is not only an advocate, but an inspiration to all who meet him.

It’s more than clean floors or scheduled meals.

A good long-term care facility centers residents’ dignity, prioritizes communication, encourages feedback, and welcomes accountability.

Those values are worth protecting.

#RISLTCOP #ChoosingCare #ResidentCenteredCare #LTCAccountability

We celebrate the cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities, including the many residents, staff, and families in long-term care.

Cultural respect is a key part of compassionate care.

#RISLTCOP #HispanicHeritageMonth #InclusiveCare #RespectInLTC #RhodeIslandCommunity

A care plan is more than a checklist; it's a reflection of a resident's needs, preferences, and goals.

Residents have the right to attend and contribute to their own care meetings.

Ask questions. Speak up. Be involved.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentVoice #CarePlanning #EmpoweredInCare #RhodeIslandAdvocacy

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in long-term care.

Residents deserve environments that prioritize safety and independence. Ask how your facility prevents falls, and don’t hesitate to reach out if something feels unsafe in your loved one’s facility.

#RISLTCOP #FallPrevention

🌸 Resident Spotlight: Celebrating 100 Years of Millie Balzano 🌸

Today, we proudly celebrate the remarkable life of Millie Balzano as she turns 100 years young! 🎉

Millie is the proud mother of four children, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Happy 100th Birthday, Millie! 🥳💐

Isolation can take a toll on mental health. Residents have the right to receive visitors of their choosing—family, friends, clergy, or advocates.

Regular visits can lift spirits and restore connection.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentRights #StayConnected #LongTermCareMatters #RhodeIslandSupport

As we begin September, we honor the work of caregivers and all who care deeply for long-term care residents.

Your compassion is felt. Thank you for showing up with patience and heart. 💙

#RISLTCOP #LaborDay #CareWithDignity #LTCWorkers #RhodeIslandCare

Medication errors in long-term care can be life-altering.

Residents deserve clear explanations, informed consent, and thoughtful coordination around every prescription. We advocate for safety and for accountability.

#RISLTCOP #MedicationSafety #ResidentProtection #LTCAdvocacy #RhodeIsland

Residents aren’t passive recipients of care.

A good care plan reflects their preferences, routines, and voice.

We advocate for residents to be active participants in planning their own lives.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentVoices #LTCRespect #RhodeIslandOmbudsman

Have a concern about care?

Start by sharing it with a trusted staff member.

If things don’t improve, reach out to us.

You don’t need to navigate this alone. Our Ombudsman team is here to help you take the next step.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentSupport #LTCConcerns #CareAccountability #RhodeIslandHelp

When a resident expresses a concern, how we respond matters.
Listening with care without interruption or dismissal is one of the most powerful ways to show respect. We are here to listen and to act.

#RISLTCOP #ListenToResidents #ElderEmpowerment #OmbudsmanSupport #RhodeIslandCare

Vaccines are one of the simplest ways to protect long-term care communities.

For residents with complex medical needs, immunization helps safeguard what matters most: their health, their independence, and their lives.

#RISLTCOP #VaccinesWork #ResidentSafety #LongTermCareSupport #RhodeIslandHealth

Long-term care begins with one fundamental promise: that every resident will be treated with respect.

That includes how they’re spoken to, how their preferences are honored, and how their privacy is protected.

#RISLTCOP #RespectInCare #ResidentDignity #ElderJustice #RhodeIslandRights

We advocate for small changes because they often make the biggest difference in someone’s day.

#RISLTCOP #QualityOfLife #ResidentCare #EverydayAdvocacy #RhodeIslandSupport

If something in a long-term care setting feels off, speak up.

The Ombudsman Program is here to listen, investigate, and support you in a confidential and respectful manner.

#RISLTCOP #SpeakUpForSeniors #LTCAdvocacy #TrustYourInstincts #RhodeIsland

Caring for someone in long-term care is an emotional journey. Families carry love, worry, and hope all at once. If you ever feel unsure, unheard, or overwhelmed, please know we’re here.

You’re not alone.

#RISLTCOP #FamilySupport #LongTermCare #ElderAdvocacy #RhodeIslandHelp

When we walk into a long-term care facility, we don’t just come in with answers. We come in to listen.

Advocacy isn’t a transaction. It’s a relationship built on trust, transparency, and the belief that every resident’s voice matters.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentAdvocacy #OmbudsmanSupport #ElderRights

Every person in long-term care deserves more than safety. They deserve joy.

Whether it’s their favorite music, a fresh meal, or a walk outside, quality of life matters. As Ombudsmen, we advocate for care that recognizes the humanity in every individual.

#RISLTCOP #LTCResident #RhodeIsland

This month, we’re reminding families, caregivers, and staff that immunization isn’t just a health issue. It’s a matter of dignity.

Protecting vulnerable residents honors their right to safety, well-being, and peace of mind.

#RISLTCOP #ImmunizationAwareness #ProtectOurResidents #ElderCareMatters

As July comes to a close, let’s carry forward what we’ve reflected on: advocacy is for everyone. Whether you’re a resident, a caregiver, or a family member, your voice matters.

Always.

#RISLTCOP #MonthOfCare #ResidentSupport #CompassionInAction #RhodeIslandCommunity