RMBI Care Co. calls for a more positive language around older people on Silver Sunday

Above: Residents Cecilia and Roy cheerfully water one of the flowerbeds at RMBI Care Co. Home Barford Court, in Hove.

To mark Silver Sunday on October 5, care provider RMBI Care Co. is calling for a nationwide shift in the way people talk about older people and care homes, urging greater use of positive and respectful language to challenge stereotypes and improve wellbeing.

The charity, which provides residential care, nursing and residential dementia support in 17 care homes across England and Wales, highlights that terms such as “elderly”, “frail” or “being put in a care home” can reinforce negative perceptions. Instead, RMBI Care Co. is encouraging alternatives like “older people”, “needs support” and “moving into a care home”, which more accurately reflect the experiences of many residents.

Anne Child, Pharmacy and Dementia Specialist Lead at RMBI Care Co., says:

Language has a powerful impact on how people feel about themselves and others. By choosing words that respect the person, we can help change public perceptions and foster a more positive culture around care.

This is not about creating a misleading image, but about shifting our perspective to focus on the dignity and individuality of people as they age.

The organisation has published its recommendations for staff, families and the public, emphasising that everyday words shape attitudes towards ageing and can influence the quality of care. Research also shows that positive language can enhance emotional wellbeing, reduce stigma and support a greater sense of inclusion and individuality for residents.

Other suggested changes include using “living with a condition” instead of “suffering”; “receiving support for independent living” instead of “losing independence”; and, when referring to care homes, “area” or “house” instead of “unit” or “wing”. “Because hospitals have units, but Homes have front doors,” adds Anne Child.

RMBI Care Co. hopes the guidance will help to educate and inspire families and wider communities to reflect on the words they use and join the movement towards more compassionate communication.

Organised by Age UK, Silver Sunday is a national day where communities come together by hosting fun and free activities for older people.

[Summary: RMBI Care Co. is marking Silver Sunday on 5 October 2025 to call for more positive and respectful language around ageing and care homes, challenging stereotypes and promoting dignity for older people. The charity has issued guidance encouraging families, staff and the public to adopt terms that reflect individuality and inclusion, showing how everyday words can shape wellbeing and perceptions of later life.]