Residents’ Bill of Rights

The formation of residents’ rights afforded to all persons living in long-term care homes, began in the early 1950’s and grew to 27 distinct rights.  The Ontario Residents’ Bill of Rights is embedded in our provincial legislation, Long-Term Care Homes Act (LTCHA), 2007, and accompanying Regulations (O. Reg. 79/10).

All long-term care homes in Ontario (including those formerly known as nursing homes, municipal homes for the aged, and charitable homes) are governed by the Long-Term Care Homes Act, 2007 (LTCHA). The requirements in the LTCHA ensure that residents of these homes receive safe, consistent, and high-quality resident-centered care in settings where residents feel at home, are treated with respect, and have the supports and services they need for their health and well-being.

Residents’ Councils review and promote the Residents’ Bill of Rights.  The following resources are some of the supports available to provide a deeper understanding of the rights.