Benefits of a Family Council

For The Family

• Orientation, support, and information for the families of new residents 
• Support and strength drawn from shared experiences 
• Education and information related to the long-term care system e.g. residents' rights, medicare reimbursement, power of attorney 
• A means to express concerns and solve problems 
• Help new residents and families "adjust" to the nursing home environment 
• A "united voice" to address issues as a "united effort." 
• Families can be the catalyst for positive actions to improve care 
• Reduce sense of isolation, helplessness, frustration 
• Gives family members the opportunity to get to know other family members 

For The Residents

• Family input into care decisions and facility changes 
• Council sponsored activities and events to supplement the activity program 
• Methods to meet individual needs through organized efforts 
• Support and protection for residents who do not have concerned family or friends 
• A connection to the community outside the facility 
• Increased family involvement in nursing home life 
• Added support for the resident council's concerns and activities 

For The Facility

• Two-way communication between the home and families 
• Sounding board for new ideas 
• Family input to aid staff in problem solving and finding solutions 
• Support on mutual concerns and goals 
• Means to know families and residents better, their past experiences, and their likes and dislikes 
• Help residents express meaningful appreciation for the staff 
• Permits "in house" resolution of problems, lessening the need for regulatory agencies