The Shift from "Patient" to "Resident"
For many years, the word "patient" was universally applied to anyone receiving medical attention, regardless of the setting. However, as the long-term care industry has evolved, so has its terminology. Today, in long-term care settings such as nursing homes and assisted living facilities, the preferred and most common term is "resident." This is not merely a semantic change but a reflection of a fundamental shift in the philosophy of care.
The word "patient" is often associated with a hospital or a temporary, clinical environment. It implies an illness-focused relationship, where one is being passively treated for a condition. In contrast, the term "resident" signifies an individual who is living in a residential community. This distinction helps to foster a home-like atmosphere and empowers the individual by acknowledging their status as a member of a community, not just a recipient of care.
Why This Terminology Matters
The choice of words in any care setting has a profound impact on the individual's dignity, autonomy, and psychological well-being. Using the term "resident" serves several important functions:
- Promotes a Home-Like Environment: It reinforces that the facility is a person's home, not a medical institution. This helps create a more comfortable and dignified living space.
- Emphasizes the Person, Not the Illness: It shifts the focus from a medical diagnosis to the individual's identity as a whole person with a rich life history.
- Supports Person-Centered Care: This approach to care places the individual's preferences, needs, and values at the center of all care decisions. Respectful language is a cornerstone of this philosophy.
- Enhances Communication: It sets a respectful tone for all interactions, encouraging caregivers to see and treat the individual as an equal adult, not a subservient patient.
Understanding the Context: Patient, Client, and Resident
The most appropriate term can depend on the specific healthcare context and the nature of the services being provided. A clear understanding of these distinctions is crucial for caregivers, family members, and the individuals themselves.
When is the term "Patient" Appropriate?
The term "patient" is still correct and appropriate in settings focused on acute, short-term medical care. This includes hospitals, surgical centers, and rehabilitation facilities where an individual is under the direct care of a provider for a specific, often temporary, health issue. For example, a person recovering from a major surgery in a skilled nursing facility for a few weeks might be referred to as a patient during that focused recovery period.
Who is a "Client"?
"Client" is another term used in the caregiving industry, especially in non-medical home health services. An individual receiving services at home, such as a visiting nurse or a personal care attendant, is often referred to as a client. This term also implies a more equal, service-based relationship and reinforces the individual's autonomy and ability to make choices about their care.
Terminology Comparison Across Care Settings
The following table provides a quick reference for the most common and respectful terms used in different care environments:
| Setting | Most Common Term | Rationale for Terminology |
|---|---|---|
| Hospital | Patient | Focus on acute medical treatment and temporary stay. |
| Nursing Home | Resident | Individual lives in the facility for an extended period. |
| Assisted Living | Resident | Emphasizes the community and home-like environment. |
| Home Health Care | Client | Individual receives services in their own home. |
| Memory Care | Resident | Promotes a sense of home and belonging. |
Best Practices for Addressing Individuals
Beyond just using the correct broad term, respectful communication involves individualized care. Here are some best practices:
- Ask for Their Preference: The simplest and most respectful approach is to ask an individual how they prefer to be addressed. Some may prefer their first name, while others might prefer a title like Mr. or Mrs., especially in certain generations. Never make assumptions.
- Use Titles Unless Given Permission: When in doubt, start with a formal title, such as "Mr. Smith" or "Ms. Jones." You can then ask, "Would you prefer if I called you John?"
- Focus on the Person: Always remember that you are addressing a person with a lifetime of experience and wisdom. A person-centered approach acknowledges this past and builds on it.
- Avoid Patronizing Language: Avoid using terms like "dear," "sweetie," or "honey," which can be demeaning and disrespectful. This kind of language can diminish a person's autonomy and agency.
Conclusion: Fostering Respect Through Language
Changing the vocabulary of care, especially moving from "patient" to "resident," is a small but powerful step in a larger movement to foster a more respectful and person-centered culture. By understanding and using appropriate terminology, caregivers and loved ones can help create an environment that values dignity, independence, and the individuality of each person in long-term care. As the care landscape continues to evolve, our language must evolve with it to reflect our best intentions and highest standards of care. For further guidance on communicating respectfully, you can review the National Institute on Aging's advice on talking with older patients.
