What are individuals in a long-term care facility called?

According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), the standard term for individuals living in long-term care facilities is "residents." [1] This choice of language is more than a simple matter of semantics; it reflects a fundamental, person-centered philosophy of care. [3] Understanding what are individuals in a long-term care facility called is the first step toward recognizing their rights and dignity.

Quick Summary

Individuals residing in a long-term care facility are most accurately and respectfully referred to as "residents" because the facility is considered their home, not a hospital. [1] This terminology prioritizes their status as members of a community who live there, distinguishing them from "patients" who are receiving short-term medical treatment. [3]

Key Points

• Term of Choice: The official and most respectful term for individuals in long-term care facilities is 'residents'. [1]

• Home, Not Hospital: "Residents" is used because the facility is their home, signifying a living arrangement, not a temporary medical stay. [3]

• Person-Centered Care: Using the term "residents" reflects a philosophy that focuses on the individual's overall well-being and life. [3]

• Avoid Clinical Terms: The term "patient" is generally inappropriate for long-term care, as it implies a clinical and temporary relationship. [3]

• Dignity and Respect: The choice of language is crucial for upholding the dignity and respect of older adults and others in long-term care. [3]

• Official Standard: Federal and state regulations, including those from CMS, standardize the use of the term "residents". [1]

Understanding the Definitive Term: "Residents"

In the realm of senior living and long-term care, the most appropriate and widely accepted term for those receiving services is "residents." [1] This word is used because it correctly acknowledges the person's status within the facility—they live there. [3] The environment, whether it's a nursing home, assisted living community, or memory care unit, serves as their home. [3] This distinction is vital for fostering an atmosphere of normalcy, comfort, and respect, rather than a purely clinical setting. [3]

Why the Shift Away from "Patients"?

The term "patient" traditionally applies to individuals in a hospital or clinic who are receiving treatment for an illness or injury. It implies a temporary, health-focused relationship with the institution. [3] In contrast, long-term care is about providing a living environment where individuals can receive ongoing support for activities of daily living (ADLs) and other needs. [3]

When a long-term care community uses the term "resident," it signals a person-centered approach. [3] This philosophy emphasizes the individual's history, personality, and preferences, treating them as a whole person with a life, not just a medical condition to be managed. [3]

Contrasting Terminology: A Matter of Dignity and Respect

While "resident" is the preferred term, you might encounter other words, each with different connotations.

The Case of "Clients"

The term "client" is sometimes used, particularly in home care or less institutional settings. While not inherently negative, it can sometimes feel transactional, emphasizing the business relationship between the individual and the care provider. [3]

The Outdated Term: "Inmates"

It is crucial to recognize that outdated and derogatory terms like "inmates" are completely unacceptable. This language is dehumanizing and is never used by reputable long-term care professionals. [3]

The Legal and Regulatory View

From a legal and regulatory standpoint, the term "resident" is the official designation. [1] Both federal and state regulations, including those from CMS, consistently refer to the people living in these facilities as residents. [1] This ensures that standards of care, rights, and protections are established around the concept of a person's home. [1]

The Importance of Person-Centered Language

Using the correct language has a profound impact on the culture of a long-term care facility. [3]

• Empowerment: It empowers the individual by treating them as an active participant in their own life and care. [3]
• Community Building: It helps foster a sense of community among those living there. [3]
• Respect for History: It acknowledges the individual has a rich life history. [3]

Comparison of Terms in Long-Term Care

Term	Primary Context	Connotation	Focus
Resident	Long-term care facility	Respectful, home-like	Person's home, long-term living arrangement
Patient	Hospital, clinic, short-term care	Clinical, medical	Illness or injury requiring temporary treatment
Client	Home care, rehabilitation center	Transactional, service-based	Consumer of services	[3]

Upholding Dignity Through Language

In conclusion, the answer to the question "what are individuals in a long-term care facility called?" is a critical one for healthy aging and senior care. The term "residents" is the standard because it reflects the most respectful and person-centered approach. [1, 3] For more information on senior care and aging, visit the official site of the National Institute on Aging. [2]

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most respectful term for a person in a nursing home?

The most respectful and appropriate term is "resident." This word acknowledges that the facility is their home and promotes a person-centered, dignified approach to care. [3]

Why is it important to use the term "resident" instead of "patient"?

Using "resident" emphasizes the person's status as a member of a community, while "patient" can feel clinical and impersonal. It recognizes that they live there, which aligns with person-centered care philosophy. [3]

Is it ever appropriate to use the term "patient" for someone in a long-term care facility?

While the person may have medical needs, using "patient" is not the standard and can be seen as depersonalizing. The term should be reserved for a specific medical context. [3]

What if a family member prefers the term "patient"?

It is important to educate family members on the modern standards of respectful terminology and explain that the shift to "resident" focuses on dignity and quality of life. [3]

Do all long-term care facilities use the term "residents"?

Reputable facilities will consistently use the term "residents" as it aligns with current best practices and regulatory requirements. If a facility uses other terms like "patients," it could indicate a less person-centered philosophy. [1, 3]

Does the term change depending on the type of facility, like assisted living versus a nursing home?

No, the term "resident" is standard across most types of long-term care settings, including nursing homes and assisted living communities. The focus remains on the individual's living situation. [3]

Where can I learn more about the rights of individuals in long-term care facilities?

You can find extensive information about residents' rights on the website for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and through state-specific regulatory bodies. [1]

What are individuals in a long-term care facility called if they only stay for a short rehabilitation period?

Even for a short rehabilitation stay, the individual is still considered a "resident." Their temporary status does not negate that the facility is their temporary home. [3]