Care Home Placement and Human Rights

In their editorial examining the pros and cons of different places of living for older people, Bally and Jung considered who enters residential and nursing (care) homes and how care in these settings might be improved.1 Research cited drew attention to factors that have a bearing on quality of life and respecting people’s wishes.2 GPs should be able to identify those who may benefit from a care home,3 but should consider the person’s cognitive abilities, perceptions, and preferences.4 They noted the importance of advance care planning, integrated care models, and individualised care. We feel that some of these matters should also be considered from a legal and human rights perspective, as care home placements will often have a profound and enduring impact on older people’s liberty, security, and family life — which are fundamental human rights.