1. Lack of companionship, no opportunity to care for others, and little variety result in the problems of loneliness, helplessness, and boredom for many nursing home residents. 2. Loneliness, helplessness, and boredom may be even greater challenges than physical and functional problems for individuals in nursing homes. 3. Through clinical research and practice innovations, nursing has an opportunity to take a leading role in increasing information about emotional and functional issues that affect the quality of life for nursing home residents.