Last updated on June 28, 2023

Older Adults: Know Your Rights

To be free from discrimination, isolation, abuse, and neglect in long-term care facilities.
To be free from discrimination in housing, including senior housing.
To have their gender identity respected in longer-term care facilities.
To access public housing and Section 8 assistance on the same basis as others, regardless of HIV status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or marital status.
To have hospital or nursing facility visitation for a spouse, partner, or person of their choice.
To have their confidentiality protected regarding personal medical information, including HIV status, gender identity, and sexual orientation.
To participate fully in their care and understand the full range of medical options available.
To have respect given to advance care directives, such as health care proxy, living will, and end-of-life wishes.
To be treated with dignity and respect by healthcare workers.
To receive appropriate, medically-necessary care, including gender-affirming care.

Check out the featured resources at the end of this page for more information about your rights and legal aid for elders in Minnesota.

Adapted from Lambda Legal, SAGE.

Legal Resources for Older Adults

The Minnesota Elder Justice Center

The Minnesota Elder Justice Center provides support, information and resources to older and vulnerable adults and their loved ones around issues of abuse, neglect and financial exploitation.
The Office of Ombudsman for Long-Term Care (OOLTC)

OOLTC is dedicated to educating residents and their families on rights, and supporting and empowering residents in exercising their rights.
Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services

SMRLS represents people 60 years or older with a focus on those in greatest social and economic need. If you are a senior and have a problem with Social Security’s SSI program, Medical Assistance, or have a nursing home or other matter, we may be able to help.