Better Quality of Life for Senior Citizens
living in Care Homes
The charter emphasises that residents in care homes have the right to dignity, freedom, security and physical and mental wellbeing, as well as the freedom of choice and self-determination
SUPPORTING THE RIGHTS OF SENIOR CITIZENS
Many people feel uncomfortable raising a complaint or concern but it is important to address your concerns early and not leaving it to escalate. This can be particularly difficult if your complaint is about care or service that you are dependent upon for meeting your most basic needs.
WHAT ARE MY RIGHTS?
The Charter of Rights and Responsibilities of Senior Citizens in Care Homes outlines your rights and responsibilities as a resident and those of the provider. Some of the rights and responsibilities include:
- That residents have the right to have their values, beliefs and preferences respected
- To be free from any form of abuse, and to be provided with the care and assistance where they require
- Residents are also to be provided with a social activity programme providing them entertainment and the opportunity to socialise with others
- Respect for the general interests of the community of the facility
WHO CAN HELP?
If you feel unsure or unable to address your concerns yourself with the service provider,
you can contact Active Ageing and Community Care to help you.
Minimum Standards for Care Homes
The Minimum Standards for Care Homes for Senior Citizens acknowledge the unique and complex needs of each individual residing in a care home. They stipulate the minimum requirements for the facility to operate a care home as well as the required knowledge, skills and competencies needed by management and staff to ensure care homes deliver quality services. The underlying principle upon which the Standards are based include person-centred care, dignity, privacy, physical and mental wellbeing, self-fulfilment, autonomy/ empowerment, equality, and the right to complain and right to legal recourse.
The Standards also advocate care homes to promote a culture of Active Ageing in the Care Home consistent with Malta’s Strategic Policy for Active Ageing. The mission of care homes should go beyond the traditional concept of ‘elderly care’, shall enable residents to realize their full potential for physical, social, and mental wellbeing, whilst also providing an environment where residents are enabled to engage in productive activities, and a healthy, independent and secure lifestyle.