Geropsychiatric Nursing: The State of the Science

Abstract

Increasing longevity, a rising prevalence of psychiatric and medical comorbidities, and dramatic changes in the nature and organization of health care delivery systems have direct implications for the theoretical frameworks and methods that will be needed to shape future geropsychiatric nursing (GPN) science. This article reviews scientific advances and persisting gaps in the knowledge base in 17 discrete areas. Topics encompass specific disorders associated with aging as well as health and quality-of-life considerations that are prominent in the geropsychiatric nursing research literature of the past two decades. The unique interests and capabilities of nurse scientists suggest broad themes for future GPN specialty and interdisciplinary research.