What are "seniors' rights"?

Seniors' rights encompass a broad set of legal entitlements aimed at safeguarding not only the physical health of older adults but also their dignity, welfare, and autonomy in decision-making. This concept recognizes that seniors deserve respect and the ability to make choices about their own lives, including health care and living arrangements. By emphasizing dignity and decision-making autonomy, seniors' rights ensure that older adults can participate meaningfully in their care plans and personal affairs rather than being subjected to decisions made by others without their input.

The focus on welfare extends to protecting seniors from discrimination, abuse, and neglect, thereby promoting their overall well-being. In many jurisdictions, laws and policies have been instituted to protect these rights, ensuring that older individuals are treated with respect and equity. This comprehensive understanding of seniors' rights is fundamental in gerontology, illustrating the need for advocacy and support systems that honor the diverse needs and capacities of older adults.