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More than 17,000 Bay Staters residing in assisted living facilities could benefit from stronger consumer protections that Attorney General Andrea Campbell’s office is starting to pursue.
Acting through the state’s consumer protection law (Chapter 93A), Campbell’s office said Tuesday it is seeking public feedback as it works on crafting regulations “to protect residents of assisted living residences from unfair and deceptive acts and practices, including misrepresentation of available services, improper fees, and unlawful evictions.” Her office said the regulations could require that facilities make certain disclosures about their contractual terms, and they also can declare certain acts and practices to be unlawful.”
For now, the state lacks consumer protection regulations that are specifically targeted for assisted living residents and facility owners and operators, Campbell’s office said.
Massachusetts does have a new law on the books overhauling the state’s long-term care sector, which includes bolstering the oversight of nursing homes and other facilities, ensuring basic health services are provided at assisted living residences, and creating more rigorous licensing standards. But a Campbell spokesperson said the regulations push is a separate initiative, based on consumer and advocates urging the AG and the office’s Elder Advisory Council to implement protections for assisted living facilities.
“Every resident of an assisted living facility has the right to live in a safe and habitable environment, free from abuse, neglect, and exploitation,” Campbell said. “Our older adults deserve to age safely with dignity and respect, which is why creating consumer protection regulations for assisted living facilities is so important and responsive to their advocacy.”
Proposed regulations would be subject to a public hearing and other opportunities for Bay Staters to weigh in, Campbell’s office said.
Assisted living represents one rung on the continuing care ladder for some Massachusetts residents. According to the attorney general, assisted living residences are “designed for older adults who can live independently in a home-like environment, but may need help with daily activities like housekeeping, bathing, or medication assistance.”
