institutionalized individuals

Institutionalized individuals are people who live in long-term care facilities such as prisons, mental health hospitals, or nursing homes, often due to health, safety, or legal reasons. These settings provide structured care and oversight, which may be necessary for their well-being or protection. Being institutionalized can impact a person’s independence and daily routines, sometimes making it difficult to adjust to life outside the facility. The term highlights the environment’s role in their daily life rather than their personal identity, emphasizing the setting where they reside rather than their character or capacity.