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Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative descriptive research study was to explore the meaning of being an elder in Nepal. The nurse researcher, accompanied by an interpreter, travelled to six villages east and west of Kathmandu Valley to speak with 25 individuals about their experiences in later life. Questions structured within Parse's theoretical perspective guided discussions to uncover older persons' views of aging, their relationships with others, and the changes and hopes of daily life. Findings revealed that the meaning of being an elder in Nepal is "cherishing necessities for survival intermingles with the rapture of celebration with important others, as diminishing familiar patterns expand moments of respite, while regard from others affirms self, and changing customs create comfort-discomfort as what-was unfolds into new possibles." Findings were congruent with Parse's theoretical concepts of valuing, enabling-limiting, and transforming. This study supported Parse's theory as a valuable guide for human inquiry and expanded the body of nursing knowledge on aging. Specific guidelines for practice and research are proposed.

Keywords

Nepal Parse's Theory

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The Meaning of Being an Elder in Nepal

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