Person-Centred Language Initiative

Behavioural Supports Ontario (BSO) is rooted in person- and family-centred care.  One such way to demonstrate this fundamental value is by incorporating a language, both written and spoken, that is specific, descriptive and resonates with the individuals we have the privilege to support.

The commitment of using Person-Centred Language (PCL) ensures that language choices are appropriate, respectful, life-affirming and inclusive when interacting with and referring to individuals who communicate via responsive behaviours/personal expressions associated with dementia, complex mental health, substance use and/or other neurological conditions, including their family care partners.
BSO and the Ontario Centres for Learning, Research and Innovation in Long-Term Care (CLRI) at the Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging (RIA) work together to deliver the Person-Centred Language (PCL) Initiative. The PCL work is supported by an expert panel, including individuals with lived experience.

Hard copies of the Person-Centred Language products (e.g., commitment statement posters, word swap posters) may be requested at any time to be mailed to Ontario Long-Term Care homes by completing this form.

In partnership with the Division of e-Learning Innovation at McMaster University, we co-designed free Person-Centred Language e-Courses for individuals working in long-term care homes. The goal is to raise awareness surrounding stigma. Engaging team members in self-reflection about assumptions, stereotypes and the role of language in the provision of person-centred care facilitates the elimination of barriers for individuals living with dementia and their family care partners.
 
PCL available in French / Le langage centré sur la personne et les ressources de soutien sont disponibles en français!

 

PCL Pledge

Take the online pledge to commit to using more person-centred language in your daily interactions and becoming an advocate for change. The pledge can be completed individually and as a team exercise.

PCL Commitment Statement Posters

Show your commitment to PCL with our clear posters. They promote inclusive communication and respect, fostering empathy, advocacy and collaboration.

Word Swap Poster

This poster supports the implementation of the person-centred language principles into practice by offering 15 words as examples to swap out in every day language.

PCL Videos

Experience the transformative impact of words in our new PCL videos. Learn how language affects relationships and discover strategies for fostering constructive dialogue and understanding.

PCL eCourse

Explore our two PCL eCourses: one for team members diving into Person-Centred Language and another for leaders mastering implementation strategies.

PCL Overview & Reports

Learn about PCL in long-term care home settings and suggestions and strategies for PCL dissemination.

PCL Webinars

Join our dynamic PCL webinars to explore its principles and applications. Gain insights, strategies, and tools for inclusive communication and enhanced relationships in your organization.

PCL en français

Apprenez ce qu’est le langage centré sur la personne. Explorez les quatre énoncés d’engagement visant à promouvoir son utilisation.

PCL Feedback

Please fill out the brief feedback form to help us improve. Your opinion matters to us!