Promoting Healthy Ageing: The Role of Nurses in Preventive Geriatric Care

Abstract

The increasing proportion of older adults in the global population has elevated the significance of promoting healthy aging, a multidimensional concept encompassing physical, mental, and social well-being. Nurses, as primary healthcare providers, play an essential and multifaceted role in advancing this goal. Their holistic approach to care integrates physical health with emotional, psychological, and social dimensions, emphasizing the importance of personalized care plans tailored to older adults' preferences, cultural contexts, and values. Nurses contribute significantly by promoting preventive measures such as regular health screenings, education on healthy lifestyle practices, and management of chronic diseases like diabetes, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular conditions. These efforts not only enhance older adults’ quality of life but also mitigate the risks of institutionalization and long-term care dependency. A key aspect of nursing practice is fostering independence and autonomy in older adults while encouraging social engagement and active participation in their communities. Nurses also advocate for age-friendly policies and environments, working collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams to address complex health challenges and support healthy aging outcomes. Their role as educators extends to empowering older adults and their families with knowledge and resources for maintaining optimal health, including guidance on nutrition, physical activity, and mental well-being. However, nurses face challenges such as managing the rising prevalence of chronic diseases and addressing the unique needs of an aging population. Innovative strategies, including promoting cognitive engagement, addressing mental health concerns, and advocating for social determinants of health, are essential components of their practice. Collaborative approaches involving governments, community organizations, and healthcare systems further amplify the effectiveness of interventions aimed at fostering healthy aging. This review highlights the critical roles, strategies, and challenges faced by nurses in promoting healthy aging, emphasizing the need for comprehensive and proactive measures. Through preventive care, early intervention, and advocacy, nurses are pivotal in supporting older adults to achieve a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and improved quality of life in their later years.