There are many situations in which a person becomes vulnerable and must rely on others for care. Providing care, in a way that demonstrates respect for a person's rights and individuality is central to Gerontological Nursing. However, meeting this goal can be difficult due to individual factors such as cognitive impairment and institutional factors such as the effects of ageism and low expectations of care.
Successful gerontological care will only be possible when all members of the interdisciplinary team share a common set of values. To facilitate progress towards a shared philosophy of care the Virtual Practice Development Community identified ten principles underpinning the nursing care of older people.