For the Family:

Orientation, support, and information for the families of new residents.

Ongoing mutual support--strength drawn from shared experiences.

Education and information related to the long-term care system, e.g.
Residents' Rights
Medicare reimbursement

A means to express concerns and solve problems.

For the Resident:

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 families or friends

A connection to the community outside the facility

For the Facility:

Two -way communication between the home and families.

Provide a 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