Objective To define social participation of the elderly using Rodgers′ evolutionary concept analysis method, and to provide reference for nursing practice. Methods Such databases as CNKI, Wanfang Data, VIP, PubMed, Web of Science and CINAHL were searched systematically. The search period was limited from the inception of the database to March 2021. According to the inclusion criteria, 56 publications were included, and the Rodgers′ evolutionary concept analysis method was used as theoretical framework for data analysis. Results Social participation of the elderly involved six defining characteristics, which were participation in social activities, participation in social interaction, participation in resource sharing, participation in social roles, realization of personal value and improvement of quality of life. The antecedents include individual factors, family factors, community factors and social support, and the outcomes include physical function, cognitive function, psychological state, sense of life value, quality of life and the cost of nursing care. Conclusion Social participation is one important indicators to evaluate the health of the elderly. Defining social participation of the elderly is helpful for nurses to understand the essence of social participation of the elderly, so as to promote their health status.