Objective To explore factors influencing self-reliance behaviors of disabled older adults in nursing homes, and to provide a basis for formulating self-reliance promotion strategies. Methods A total of 9 disabled older adults and 12 staff members from nursing homes were selected for semi-structured in-depth interviews using purposive sampling method. Content analysis was performed for interview data. Results Four themes and seven sub-themes were identified, including personal traits （traits that promote or hinder self-reliant behaviors）, cognitive biases （viewing caregiving as a servant job, viewing caregivers as sitters or maids）, perceived benefits （having enhanced physical and psychological functioning, attaining positive psychological experience, winning caregiver′s concern）, and self-efficacy. Conclusion Many factors can affect self-reliance behaviors of disabled older adults in nursing homes. Nursing staff can improve older adults′ sense of self-efficacy by correcting their cognitive bias, guiding them to discover the benefits of self-reliance as early as possible, and by forging self-reliance habits, in an effort to mobilize their enthusiasm for self-reliance.