Population ageing challenges health systems, requiring innovative, person-centered geriatric nursing models that strengthen functional autonomy and respond to the complexity of ageing. The objective of this study was to analyze the contribution of nursing innovation in comprehensive geriatric care to strengthening functional autonomy in older adults. A qualitative descriptive study was conducted with ten nursing professionals using semi-structured interviews and non-participant observation, analyzed through thematic analysis to explore innovative geriatric care practices. The results showed that nursing innovation was oriented toward promoting functional autonomy through individualized practices, graded support, and therapeutic relationships. Autonomy emerged as a dynamic process shaped by contextual, organizational, and ethical care factors. Nursing innovation in geriatric care transforms traditional models by prioritizing functional autonomy, positioning nursing as a key agent in ethical, flexible, and person-centered practices.
Morán et al. (Thu,) studied this question.