Caring for Residents of Eldercare Facilities: A Concept Analysis.

PURPOSE: To report the results of an evolutionary concept analysis of caring in facilities that provide care for elders.

SOURCES: Cumulative indices for CINAHL, ERIC, Academic Search Complete, PsychINFO, Medline, and CEPTS.

RESULTS: Caring is an interactive process characterized by seeing, helping, and communicating, which are analogous to two wheels with one axle. Caring is preceded by individuality and followed by well-being.

CONCLUSION: The findings explicate the core components of caring in facilities that provide care for elders.

IMPLICATIONS: The metaphor of an axle and wheel can guide caregivers in delivering effective care as the demand for improved well-being of residents of eldercare facilities increases.