Maintenance of Continuity in Older Adulthood: Concept Analysis

PURPOSE: This article aims to define the concept of maintenance of continuity in older adulthood (MCOA) and assist nurses to better understand the concept of MCOA. METHODS: The method by Walker and Avant was used for this concept analysis. FINDINGS: In the literature, MCOA is defined as a psychosocial adaptation strategy by searching for preference and familiarity, making a sense of connection, and creating coherence. CONCLUSIONS: MCOA has potential to improve psychosocial adjustment to difficult life transitions as a coping mechanism. IMPLICATION FOR NURSING PRACTICE: Insights about MCOA in nursing may contribute to improved patient care outcomes by assisting nurses to understand the elderly's experience during age-related challenges from a life course perspective.