Resilience in Aging: A Concept Analysis to Enhance Gerontological Nursing Practice

Background: Resilience in aging is increasingly recognized as a key determinant of older adults’ ability to adapt to health stressors, maintain functional independence, and achieve successful aging. Despite its relevance, conceptual ambiguity limits its systematic application in gerontological nursing practice. Objective: To clarify the concept of resilience in aging by identifying its defining attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents relevant to gerontological nursing practice. Method: Walker and Avant’s eight-step concept analysis method was used. A absorbed literature search was led across health and nursing databases, synthesizing empirical studies, reviews, and prior concept analyses related to resilience in older adults. Data were extracted to examine defining attributes, antecedents, consequences, and measurable indicators of resilience. Results: Four defining attributes were identified: (1) adaptive recovery, the ability to “bounce back” after adversity; (2) maintenance or restoration of function, sustaining physical, cognitive, and social functioning; (3) dynamic / processual nature, resilience evolves over time; and (4) resource utilization, mobilization of internal coping strategies and external/social supports. Key antecedents included exposure to stressors, baseline health and cognitive reserves, and availability of social and environmental supports. Consequences encompassed preserved independence in ADLs and IADLs, slower frailty progression, improved quality of life, and reduced mortality risk. Empirical referents included validated instruments such as the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) and the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS). Conclusion: Clarifying resilience in aging enhances gerontological nursing practice by supporting systematic assessment, evidence-based interventions, and evaluation of patient outcomes, providing a framework for strength-based, patient-centred care that promotes adaptive functioning and healthy aging.