| The purpose of this study was to explore how elderly individuals maintain positive well-being while residing in a nursing home. The study also explored how nurses can contribute to the well-being of elderly nursing home residents.; A qualitative approach was used to collect stories related to dealing with challenging times. Parse's Theory of Human Becoming (1992) provided the framework for the study. Heuristic data analysis strategies were utilized.; The themes of inner strength/religious faith, close supportive family, heredity, physical activity, having fun, and maintaining contact with family and friends were identified. Findings were consistent with Antonovsky's concept of salutogenesis (1979) and Parse's Theory of Human Becoming. The findings suggest that well-being exists on an evolving continuum and is personally defined. |
