Helpful Privacy Tips for Seniors in Assisted Living

Are you moving to assisted living? No matter where you are, it’s important to protect your privacy. Seniors are at higher risk for breaches in privacy, including sensitive health data. Follow these tips to help protect your private information in assisted living.

Understand Your Rights

You might know about patient privacy in a healthcare context. However, privacy rights extend into assisted living and other senior communities as well. Each resident has the right to dignity and privacy, both of which are essential for a high quality of life. 

Staff and Confidential Information

Confidentiality is one of the most important aspects of privacy in assisted living. This means that staff members should never share your information with anyone else. The only exception to this is if you’ve approved a loved one to gain access to your information. 

Access to Your Records and Documents

Along with confidentiality, you should have access to any of your records or health plans upon request. Assisted living communities are required to keep records accessible to residents. You deserve to know what’s involved in your care. 

Learn About Privacy Differences: Assisted Living vs. Independent Senior Living

Some senior living communities are designed to help residents with activities of daily living. This means you may not get the same privacy as a resident in an independent living community. However, staff members should still follow confidentiality rules.

Assisted living communities might monitor residents for safety and health reasons. There may be cameras in common areas and locks on doors. This is for your protection, not to infringe on your privacy. 

Other than monitoring you for safety and security, assisted living communities should not invade your privacy. You should still be allowed to have private visits with loved ones and plenty of alone time when you want it. 

In independent senior living, residents naturally have a higher degree of privacy. You can expect your personal activities and residence to be completely private. This means no one else should have access to these pieces of information and places without your permission. 

Know That You Can Maintain Personal Autonomy

You have the right to personal autonomy, regardless of age or medical status. This means you should have a say in all of your care decisions. Know that you have the right to refuse any activity or amenity at any time, and staff members should back you up on this. 

Autonomy is the most important part of your privacy as an assisted living resident. Ensure your loved ones are familiar with staff members so that you have extra support on the outside. 

Every Assisted Living Resident Has the Right to Privacy

Privacy and dignity are your rights as a resident in assisted living in Phoenix. Know the laws in your state and practice speaking up for yourself. You don’t have to give up your privacy to enjoy the benefits of assisted living.