An integrative review of the factors influencing older nurses' timing of retirement.

Aims: To summarize the international empirical literature to provide a comprehensive understanding of older nurses' decision-making surrounding the timing of their retirement.

Background: The global nursing shortage is increasing. Among some countries it has become an economic imperative to consider raising the state pension age and to extend working lives.

Design: An integrative literature review using an integrated design.

Data Sources: MEDLINE, CINAHL and Business Source Premier databases were searched for studies between January 2007 - October 2019.

Review Methods: Quality appraisal of the studies was conducted. Findings were summarized, grouped into categories and themes extracted. Two models were developed for data representation.

Results: A total of 132 studies were identified by the search strategy. Of these, 27 articles were included for appraisal and synthesis. Sixteen papers were quantitative, seven qualitative, and four mixed methods. The research took place in 13 different geographical locations. Most studies were of a questionnaire design, followed by interviews and focus groups. The total participant sample was 35,460. Through a synthesis of the studies, four themes were identified: Health, Well-being, and Family factors; Employer factors; Professional factors; and Financial factors.

Conclusion: This review not only revealed the heterogeneity of studies on this subject and confirmed previous findings but also established a ranking of criteria that influences nurses' decision-making: age, followed by personal and organizational factors. Four extracted themes of push and pull factors map onto these factors. No 'one-size-fits-all' strategy exists to ensure the extension of older nurses' working lives. Organizations need to foster an environment where older nurses feel respected and heard and where personal and professional needs are addressed.

Impact: Organizations need to implement HR policies addressing nurses' personal well-being and retirement preparation. Older nurses are more likely to extend their working lives if they feel committed to their organization and when professional standards are maintained.