Experiences and retention perspectives of registered nurses aged 50 and older: A qualitative descriptive study

Retention of experienced registered nurses is increasingly critical as the nursing workforce ages and clinical expertise is at risk of being lost. Older nurses contribute essential knowledge, mentorship, and clinical judgment to healthcare organizations, yet the experiences of those who continue to work in staff roles later in their careers remain underexplored, particularly in ways that translate into actionable retention strategies.

The purpose of this qualitative descriptive study was to explore the work experiences and retention-related perspectives of registered nurses who continue to work in staff roles past the age of 50.

Twelve registered nurses aged 50 and older, currently employed or recently retired, participated in semi-structured interviews. A purposeful sampling strategy ensured diversity across age, gender, ethnicity, and workplace setting. Interview data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis, with trustworthiness established through prolonged engagement, audit trail documentation, and method and investigator triangulation.

Three interrelated themes were identified: (1) a positive internal mindset rooted in calling, compassion, and meaningful relationships; (2) challenges and resilience reflecting how nurses navigated adversity; and (3) sustaining well-being as a condition of continued employment, encompassing physical and emotional dimensions of workplace experience.

Findings underscore that retention of experienced nurses requires integrated, multidimensional organizational strategies rather than single-focus interventions. Supportive leadership, structured mentorship, recognition, learning opportunities, and benefit structures that make retirement a matter of choice are essential conditions for sustaining nurses' continued practice in later career.