Abstract: ObjectiveTo investigate the social support and its related factors of elderly patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).Methods60 outpatients with COPD over the age of 60 years were recruited in the study. Social support rating scale (SSRS) and demographic information were applied for investigation.ResultsScores of objective, subjective support, and availability of support were lower than the norm (P<0.05). Social support was significantly different among elderly patients with age, education levels and matital status (P<0.05). Patients aged over 70 years, low education level, divorced or widowed were vulnerable groups with low social support.ConclusionEfforts should be made to strengthen the social support system for elderly patients with COPD, especially for those aged over 70 years, low education, divorced or widowed.

Key words: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, social support, nursing