Journal of advanced nursing
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Loss is a common occurrence in the lives of the elderly. One of the most profound losses is the death of a spouse. Yet, infrequent and predictable as this event is for older adults, we know very little about the grieving process or the resolution of grief among this age group. ⋯ A beginning theoretical integration and discussion of key concepts related to bereavement and the elderly is provided. This discussion is summarized in a proposed model. This paper concludes with suggestions for nursing research and practice.