Living in an independent senior facility? Advocates for WA seniors want to hear from you
After an incident involving management and residents at a Lacey independent living facility last month, lawmakers and advocates for seniors are encouraging residents in independent living facilities across Washington to contact state officials to share their own experiences.
McClatchy first reported on the meeting that led Rep. Laurie Dolan and Sen. Sam Hunt, both Olympia Democrats, to consider new legislation that would provide a “bill of rights” for seniors who live in independent living facilities.
Those legislators were joined by fellow Olympia Democrat Rep. Jessica Bateman for a follow-up meeting on July 7 at Bonaventure, where seniors were provided with further resources.
Representatives from the Office of the State Long Term Care Ombuds were also present to discuss concerns with residents, and will continue collecting information until the legislative session begins in January to determine whether statutes need to be changed or added to protect independent living residents.
Since the initial story, Dolan said her office has received a “huge” response for seniors wondering how they can provide their input.
Patricia Hunter, the Washington State long-term care ombuds for the office, told McClatchy Friday that independent living residents are “absolutely welcome” to contact the Office of the State Long Term Care Ombuds with concerns and information.
In a letter to McClatchy editors Thursday, Hunter said she wants to make it clear “there should be no misunderstanding about a resident or tenant’s legal and civil right to exercise their civil rights.”
“All long term care homes — Bonaventure corporation, licensed providers, and licensed assisted living administrators should know this,” Hunter added. “Who better to hold these businesses accountable than the residents who experience shortcomings in the care or services they have been promised.”
Residents can contact the Office of the State Long Term Care Ombuds by phone at 1-800-562-6028, or through their website WAombudsman.org
Hunter said it is important to note that the state office doesn’t have jurisdiction to serve individuals in independent settings, but that they are interested in hearing from residents. The Ombuds program can advocate for residents of nursing homes, adult family homes, and assisted living facilities.
This story was originally published July 18, 2022 at 5:00 AM.
