Statement of Rights & Responsibilities

The following is a statement of rights of persons enrolled in adult day services programs. Though the statement is not intended to be inclusive, it suggests an outline of the basic rights that should be guaranteed to adult day services participants.

• The right to be treated as an adult, with consideration, respect and dignity, including privacy in treatment and in care for personal needs;

• The right to participate in a program of services and activities designed to encourage independence, learning, growth and awareness of constructive ways to develop one’s interests and talents;

• The right to self-determination within the day services setting, including the opportunity to:

1. Participate in developing or changing one’s plan for services;
2. Decide whether or not to participate in any given activity;
3. Be involved to the extent possible in program planning and operation;
4. Refuse treatment and be informed of the consequences of such refusal;
5. End participation in the adult day center at any time;

• The right to a thorough initial assessment, development of an individualized plan of care, and a determination of the required level of care;

•  The right to be cared for in an atmosphere of sincere interest and concern in which needed support and services are provided;

• The right to a safe, secure, and clean environment;

• The right to receive nourishment and assistance with meals as necessary to maximize functional abilities and quality of life;

• The right to confidentiality and the guarantee that no personal or medical information will be released to persons not authorized under law to receive it without the participant’s written consent;

• The right to voice grievances about care or treatment without discrimination or reprisal;

• The right to be fully informed, as documented by the participant’s written acknowledgment, of all participant’s rights and responsibilities and of all rules and regulations regarding participant conduct and responsibilities;

• The right to be free from harm, including unnecessary physical or chemical restraint, isolation, excessive medication, abuse or neglect;

• The right to be fully informed, at the time of acceptance into the program, of services and activities available and related charges;

• The right to communicate with others and be understood by them to the extent of the participant’s capability.

• The responsibility to treat personnel with respect and courtesy;

• The responsibility to communicate with staff to develop a relationship of trust;

• The responsibility to make appropriate choices and seek appropriate care;

• The responsibility to ask questions and confirm understanding of instructions;

•  The responsibility to share opinions, concerns and complaints with the director.

© National Adult Day Services Association