Objective To investigate the status of subjective cognitive decline （SCD） in institutionalized older adults, to analyze its influencing factors, and to provide reference for targeted measures. Methods A total of 212 elderly people were selected from two eldercare institutions in Guangzhou and were surveyed by using the Subjective Cognitive Decline Questionnaire, Montreal Cognitive Assessment Basic, Activities of Daily Living Scale, Hachinski Ischemia scale, Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Generalized Anxiety Disorder scale, and the Patient Health Questionnaire. Results Eighty-six (40.57%) older adults had SCD.Advanced age, anxiety and depression were the risk factors of SCD, but drinking tea was the protective factor. Conclusion The prevalence of SCD in institutionalized older adults was relatively high. Medical staff in eldercare institutions should pay attention to early cognitive screening and the mental health of the elderly.