What term describes a person who supports or promotes another's needs and interests?

The term that describes a person who supports or promotes another's needs and interests is "advocate." An advocate actively speaks on behalf of someone, often ensuring that their rights and needs are addressed, whether in healthcare, legal matters, or other situations. Advocacy is a crucial component of care, particularly in nursing and healthcare settings, where patients may not always be able to express their own needs or desires.

While an ombudsman also plays a supportive role, their primary function is to address complaints and address issues within a specific system, such as healthcare services, rather than broadly promoting someone's needs and interests. A caregiver focuses on providing direct personal care and assistance to individuals, while an administrator is more involved in overseeing operations and management, rather than direct advocacy for individuals. Understanding the specific roles and responsibilities associated with each term helps clarify why "advocate" is the most fitting answer in this context.