This study was done to analyze the trends in research and to suggest future directions for nursing research on nursing care for elderly people in Korea. Eighty-eight studies in gerontological nursing between 1999 and 2003 were reviewed. The author examined research design, participants, major concepts, nursing interventions, and related variables associated with gerontological nursing. The findings of the analysis are summarized as follows: 1. The most popular research design was quantitative design (83.0%) including surveys, experimental, correlation, and comparative studies. Qualitative studies accounted for only 7.9% of the total. 2. Most participants were elderly (79.5%). Major concepts studied were mental and physical health. 3. There were many factors influencing nursing of elderly people. In 14 experimental studies, the most frequent nursing interventions were exercise programs and music therapy. In 31 correlation studies, factors such as social support, health status, depression, and self-efficacy were found to correlate with nursing interventions. The following issues are suggested for future studies. 1. Future research is needed for nursing interventions and program development. Meta-analysis and triangular methods of study need to be conducted for evidence in gerontological research. 2. Study with more diverse participants and environmental research, as well as participation in, and collaborate with, other disciplines are needed in future studies involving elderly people. 3. Studies on policies and strategies to improve the status of elderly people along with theory based studies and cost effectiveness studies in nursing care of elderly people are also needed.