‘Family councils’ advocate for relatives in nursing homes

A new law in Texas is encouraging families to form “councils” to advocate for elders in nursing homes. The councils are essentially an alliance of families who seek to improve conditions in a long-term care facility. Working as a united front, the councils promote better care by increasing family interaction with nursing home workers and therefore boosting staff accountability. The councils have compelled nursing home employees to respond quickly to call buttons, improve meals, and hire more staff. They have acted as “extra sets of eyes and ears,” especially to alert administration of concerns and problems within the facilities.

The new state law raises the councils’ profile and bolsters their influence, energizing advocates and sparking interest among families. Under the law, councils are granted more credence and influence. The homes must provide councils with a meeting space, and they are allowed to meet directly with inspection teams to learn about any violations more quickly. Essentially, councils are a way to guarantee that complaints are heard without staff retaliation. As a result, councils have become more common. The Texas Health Care Association is pleased to see the rise in councils; they believe family participation helps their effort to make nursing homes less impersonal. The council provides a designated place for family members to express concerns or opinions.

There is power in numbers as well. As advocates of the councils point out, if one person complains, nothing may happen; if dozens complain, the home will be more likely to pay attention. Councils are more than just about finding injustices in the homes – many plan birthday parties and special trips and outings for the residents. They also help family members and staff work together, support each other, and help create the best environment for their loved ones.

If you are interested in creating a family council, here are some basic steps.

1. Determine the necessity within the home: you only need a few families to set up a council.
2. Advise the administrator about your goals and concerns: the new law guarantees the council meeting space in the home.
3. Notify other families through bulletin boards and mail notices.
4. Ask advocacy groups and local organizations for help: ask authorities and become familiar with elders’ rights.
5. Hold your first meeting: invite the administrator to speak and discuss the council’s goals. Under the law, staff can only attend if the council extends an invitation.