Study of Nursing theories applied to comprehensive care of elderly people during the aging process
Keywords:
Aged; Geriatric Nursing; Nursing Theory; Aging; Comprehensive Health CareAbstract
Introduction: Nursing is a humanistic and scientific profession that encompasses autonomous and collaborative care provided to individuals, families, and communities under any health condition. Its scope includes health promotion, disease prevention, and comprehensive care for older adults, individuals with disabilities, or those in terminal conditions. In the current context of demographic transition, the discipline must adapt its interventions to the social and biological environment, ensuring ethical care.
Objective: To analyze various Nursing theories and their close relationship with the comprehensive approach to the population aging process.
Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted through documentary analysis during the period 2021–2026, incorporating sources from 2017 due to their relevance and theoretical value. The LILACS, MEDLINE, PubMed, and SciELO databases were consulted. Eligibility criteria were applied based on thematic relevance, methodological clarity, and academic currency. Using specific descriptors and Boolean operators, the final sample consisted of 30 publications that rigorously met the established scientific quality standards for the study.
Conclusions: Global aging demands highly trained Nursing professionals in care, preventive, and social functions. The theories of Virginia Henderson, Madeleine Leininger, and Jean Watson provide solid conceptual frameworks for systematic assessment and the planning of personalized care. These models contribute to maintaining functional autonomy, preserving cognitive capacities, and improving the quality of life of older adults. The application of this theoretical foundation ensures effective, humanized, and culturally congruent care.
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