Author | Lightnews

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · 2d

Residents' Rights Month is about more than awareness—it's about inspiring.

This is Filomena Tougas, Long Term Care Resident, she couldn’t wait to dive into the word search and read through the information shared by the Ombudsman Program. 💙💛🤍

#ResidentsRightsMonth #StandWithMe

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · 8d

Earlier this month, Rhode Island Ombudsman Lori Light spoke at the Senior Agenda Coalition of Rhode Island “Navigating Choppy Waters Conference.”

Lori’s segment begins at 1:53.27.

Thank you to everyone who attended!

capitoltvri.cablecast.tv/show/11543?s...

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · 10d

📣 Zoom Meeting Tonight at 7 PM

Join our RISLTCOP Zoom Meeting to ask questions, learn about residents’ rights, and hear how the Ombudsman Program supports long-term care residents across Rhode Island.

🔗 Join here: bit.ly/riltcopzoomreg

#RISLTCOP #ZoomSupport #ElderRights #LTCAdvocacy

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · 11d

Vaccines are a powerful way to protect long-term care residents—many of whom live with complex health conditions.

✅ COVID-19
✅ Flu
✅ Pneumonia
✅ Shingles

Ombudsmen support residents' right to make informed decisions about their care.

#RISLTCOP #ImmunizationAwareness #LTCWellness

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · 14d

🌷 Resident Spotlight 🌷

Meet Barbara, who at 97 years young continues to inspire us all with her strength, grace, and love of life. 💕

We are so lucky to celebrate and honor Barbara! 💐💛

#ResidentSpotlight #LTCResident #RISLTCOP #RhodeIsland

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · 16d

Did you know residents in long-term care have the right to refuse care?

That includes medications, treatments, and services. Informed consent isn’t optional. It’s a right.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentsRightsMonth #ConsentMatters #ElderAutonomy #RhodeIslandAdvocacy

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · 17d

📅 Reminder: RISLTCOP Zoom Meeting – Tuesday, Oct. 14 at 7 PM

Residents, families, and caregivers are invited to ask questions and learn more about residents’ rights and the Ombudsman Program.

Join the conversation—your voice matters.

🔗 Register here: bit.ly/riltcopzoomreg

#RISLTCOP #ZoomWithUs

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · 18d

What is an Ombudsman?

We’re advocates, listeners, and problem-solvers who visit long-term care facilities to ensure residents’ rights are protected.

If something doesn’t feel right, we’re here to help—confidentially, respectfully, and without judgment.

#RISLTCOP #WhoWeAre #OmbudsmanExplained

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · 21d

🌸 Resident Spotlight 🌸

Today, we celebrate Irene Michelle, who just turned 91 years young, surrounded by the love of her family! Her joyful spirit and great sense of humor continue to inspire everyone around her.

Please join us in wishing Irene a very Happy 91st Birthday!

#ResidentSpotlight

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · 23d

October is Residents’ Rights Month, a time to reflect on dignity, autonomy, and advocacy in long-term care. Every resident deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.

Let’s recommit to listening, speaking up, and ensuring every right is upheld.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentsRightsMonth #ElderAdvocacy

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Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · 28d

🌟 Resident Spotlight: Helen B 🌟

Meet Helen, a remarkable woman who just celebrated her 102nd birthday! 🎉 Although she was born in Ohio, Helen grew up right here in Providence and still feels as young as 60 at heart.

Please join us in celebrating Helen’s incredible life and wisdom! 💙💛

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Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · Sep 24

Resident councils give long-term care communities a voice.

From suggesting new activities to raising concerns, they create space for collaboration and empowerment.

If your facility has one, get involved.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentLeadership #ResidentCouncils #CommunityInCare #RhodeIslandAdvocacy

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · Sep 22

As seasons change, so do needs.

Cooler weather can affect mobility, comfort, and routines. It’s a good time to revisit your loved one’s plans and ask: “Is this still working for you?”

Advocacy includes seasonal awareness.

#RISLTCOP #SeasonalCare #ResidentComfort #AutumnInCare #RhodeIslandLTC

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · Sep 19

Dino Russo is a passionate voice for human rights whose life experiences have shaped both his purpose and his vision.

With his unwavering commitment to uplifting others and creating a more just community, Dino is not only an advocate, but an inspiration to all who meet him.

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · Sep 17

It’s more than clean floors or scheduled meals.

A good long-term care facility centers residents’ dignity, prioritizes communication, encourages feedback, and welcomes accountability.

Those values are worth protecting.

#RISLTCOP #ChoosingCare #ResidentCenteredCare #LTCAccountability

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · Sep 15

We celebrate the cultures and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities, including the many residents, staff, and families in long-term care.

Cultural respect is a key part of compassionate care.

#RISLTCOP #HispanicHeritageMonth #InclusiveCare #RespectInLTC #RhodeIslandCommunity

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Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · Sep 10

A care plan is more than a checklist; it's a reflection of a resident's needs, preferences, and goals.

Residents have the right to attend and contribute to their own care meetings.

Ask questions. Speak up. Be involved.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentVoice #CarePlanning #EmpoweredInCare #RhodeIslandAdvocacy

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · Sep 8

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in long-term care.

Residents deserve environments that prioritize safety and independence. Ask how your facility prevents falls, and don’t hesitate to reach out if something feels unsafe in your loved one’s facility.

#RISLTCOP #FallPrevention

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · Sep 4

🌸 Resident Spotlight: Celebrating 100 Years of Millie Balzano 🌸

Today, we proudly celebrate the remarkable life of Millie Balzano as she turns 100 years young! 🎉

Millie is the proud mother of four children, and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Happy 100th Birthday, Millie! 🥳💐

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · Sep 3

Isolation can take a toll on mental health. Residents have the right to receive visitors of their choosing—family, friends, clergy, or advocates.

Regular visits can lift spirits and restore connection.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentRights #StayConnected #LongTermCareMatters #RhodeIslandSupport

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · Sep 1

As we begin September, we honor the work of caregivers and all who care deeply for long-term care residents.

Your compassion is felt. Thank you for showing up with patience and heart. 💙

#RISLTCOP #LaborDay #CareWithDignity #LTCWorkers #RhodeIslandCare

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · Aug 27

Medication errors in long-term care can be life-altering.

Residents deserve clear explanations, informed consent, and thoughtful coordination around every prescription. We advocate for safety and for accountability.

#RISLTCOP #MedicationSafety #ResidentProtection #LTCAdvocacy #RhodeIsland

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Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · Aug 25

Residents aren’t passive recipients of care.

A good care plan reflects their preferences, routines, and voice.

We advocate for residents to be active participants in planning their own lives.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentVoices #LTCRespect #RhodeIslandOmbudsman

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · Aug 22

Have a concern about care?

Start by sharing it with a trusted staff member.

If things don’t improve, reach out to us.

You don’t need to navigate this alone. Our Ombudsman team is here to help you take the next step.

#RISLTCOP #ResidentSupport #LTCConcerns #CareAccountability #RhodeIslandHelp

Rhode Island State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program @risltcop.bsky.social · Aug 20

When a resident expresses a concern, how we respond matters.
Listening with care without interruption or dismissal is one of the most powerful ways to show respect. We are here to listen and to act.

#RISLTCOP #ListenToResidents #ElderEmpowerment #OmbudsmanSupport #RhodeIslandCare