Objective To analyze the concept of nursing dependence in the elderly, and to clarify its conceptual connotation.Methods The relevant literature on nursing dependence in the elderly were systematically searched in Chinese and English databases, such as CNKI, Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform, VIP website, PubMed, Web of Science, etc. Finally, 42 articles were inclu-ded, then Rodgers evolutionary concept analysis method was used to conduct in-depth analysis and definition of nursing dependence in the elderly.Results Nursing dependence in the elderly involved four defined attributes, namely functional dependency, self-care deficits, needs, and supportive care.The antecedents included demographic factors, physiological factors, psychological cognitive factors, and external factors, and the consequences consisted of impacts on the elderly themselves, caregivers, and the society.Conclusion Nursing dependence in the elderly is a multidimensional and complex concept that encompasses multiple conceptual attributes and is also influenced by multiple factors.Its conceptual analysis is beneficial for nursing staff to clearly understand the concept and essence of nursing dependence in the elderly, thereby providing references for relevant theoretical research and the development of evaluation scales.