Nursing experience: a new elderly resident in a nursing home

Demographic changes in the population mean that relocation from community settings to long-term care institutions will steadily increase among elderly adults. As part of a normal aging process, these adults will experience change in their adaptation abilities, especially among those who experience physical or psychological function impairment. In this case report, the author describes an elderly woman with osteoarthritis who had to severely restrict her daily activities. Her move into a nursing home caused problems in terms of self-esteem and adjusting to a new environment. After providing appropriate nursing management and support, the patient's functional ability and physical challenges improved to the point that she was able to return to her family home.