Why the term "resident" is used in nursing homes
The move away from the term "patient" and toward "resident" is a significant shift in long-term care culture. The change reflects a modern philosophy that prioritizes quality of life and respect for the individual. A hospital is a temporary environment for acute medical treatment, which is where the term "patient" is appropriate. A nursing home, however, is a person's home for an extended period, which makes "resident" the more fitting and respectful term.
The 1987 Nursing Home Reform Law, a federal regulation, explicitly guarantees residents' rights and places a strong emphasis on their dignity and self-determination. This legislation helped solidify the use of "resident" in the industry, underscoring that people in these facilities maintain the same rights as individuals in the broader community. The language we use shapes our perception, and calling an individual a "resident" helps all parties—staff, family, and the individual themselves—view the care setting as a home rather than a purely clinical institution.
The crucial distinction between resident and patient
The core difference lies in the context and duration of care. A patient is someone receiving temporary medical treatment, typically in a hospital. This status implies an illness that is being treated or managed, with the expectation of a discharge once acute care is no longer needed. A resident, by contrast, is an individual who lives in a long-term care facility, such as a nursing home or assisted living facility, and receives ongoing personal and medical support. While a resident may have health issues, their status as a resident signifies their place of dwelling.
This shift in terminology is more than semantics; it's a foundation for a resident-centered care model. This approach empowers individuals to participate in their own care planning and decision-making, emphasizing personal choice in daily life, such as what to wear, when to eat, and how to spend their time.
The legal rights of nursing home residents
Federal and state laws provide a comprehensive set of rights to protect the well-being and dignity of nursing home residents. These rights are a cornerstone of quality care and include:
- The right to be fully informed about services, fees, and rules.
- The right to participate in their own care, including receiving adequate treatment and refusing medication.
- The right to privacy and confidentiality regarding their personal and medical information.
- The right to dignity, respect, and freedom from abuse or restraints.
- The right to make independent choices, such as selecting their physician and managing their financial affairs.
Facilities are legally required to inform residents of these rights upon admission. Advocacy groups, such as The Consumer Voice, play a critical role in educating families and residents about these protections and ensuring facilities adhere to the law.
Comparison: Resident vs. Patient
| Feature | Resident | Patient |
|---|---|---|
| Setting | Long-term care facility (nursing home, assisted living) | Acute medical setting (hospital, doctor's office) |
| Duration of Stay | Extended, often permanent | Short-term for specific medical treatment |
| Primary Goal | Quality of life, dignity, and personal well-being | Medical diagnosis, treatment, and recovery |
| Rights Emphasis | Autonomy, self-determination, and personal choice | Medical treatment decisions and privacy |
| Social Aspect | Community living, social activities, home environment | Clinical care, often with restrictions |
| Legal Status | Protected by federal and state residents' rights laws | Protected by HIPAA and patient rights |
Life as a nursing home resident
Life as a resident in a modern nursing home is designed to be enriching, not merely clinical. Daily routines typically incorporate both medical care and social activities to promote overall well-being. Staff work to foster a sense of community among residents, and family and friends are encouraged to visit and be involved.
Common daily activities for residents include:
- Socialization: Group games, movie nights, and communal dining foster new friendships and a sense of belonging.
- Physical activity: Gentle exercise classes, walking clubs, and physical therapy sessions help maintain mobility.
- Personal interests: Opportunities for hobbies like gardening, arts and crafts, or music therapy are often available.
- Therapeutic services: In-house physical, occupational, and speech therapy are common offerings.
Facilities also aim to create a safe and comfortable environment, reducing the risk of falls and other accidents. A personalized care plan is developed for each resident, which is regularly reviewed and adjusted to meet their evolving needs. Family members are typically included in these discussions to ensure the resident's wishes are respected.
The role of skilled nursing and rehabilitation
While the term "resident" emphasizes dignity and permanence, nursing homes are also equipped to provide a high level of medical care, differentiating them from assisted living facilities. Many residents are there for short-term skilled care following a hospital stay for rehabilitation after surgery or an illness. In these cases, the individual is a resident who is receiving patient-like care.
Services in skilled nursing facilities include:
- 24-hour skilled nursing care.
- Medication management.
- Complex wound care.
- Post-operative care.
- Intensive rehabilitation services, such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
This blend of residential living and medical expertise is what defines a nursing home. The use of the term "resident" ensures that even when receiving intensive medical treatments, the individual's status as a person with a home and personal rights is always respected.
Conclusion
The question, "Are people in nursing homes called residents?" is definitively answered by the shift in modern elder care. The use of "resident" over "patient" is not a casual choice but a deliberate one that upholds the dignity, rights, and quality of life for individuals in long-term care settings. It transforms a clinical stay into a residential experience, emphasizing that a nursing home is their home, where their choices and personal preferences are paramount. Understanding this terminology is crucial for families, caregivers, and anyone involved in the long-term care landscape, as it reflects a commitment to a more humane and respectful approach to aging and caregiving.
- For more information on resident rights and advocacy, visit the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care website at The Consumer Voice.
