Objective To explore the potential profile classifications of dementia fear among elderly inpatients and analyze its influencing factors, to provide a basis for formulating targeted intervention measures. Methods Convenient sampling was used to select 263 elderly inpatients as research subjects. A general information questionnaire, the Fear of Dementia Scale, the Motivation to Change Lifestyle and Health Behaviors for Dementia Risk Reduction Scale, and the Social Support Rating Scale were used to conduct the survey. Latent profile analysis was employed to identify potential subtypes of dementia fear in elderly hospitalized patients, and logistic regression analysis was applied to determine the influencing factors for different profile classifications. Results The dementia fear score of elderly inpatients was 76.00 (56.00, 81.00) points, and they were classified into 3 latent profiles:mild fear type (52.9%), balanced fear type (21.3%), and cognitive sensitivity-intense fear type (25.8%). Educational level, number of children, knowledge of dementia prevention, and social support level were identified as influencing factors for dementia fear profile classifications in elderly hospitalized patients (all P<0.05). Conclusion Dementia fear among elderly inpatients is at a medium-to-high level and exhibits distinct categorical characteristics. Medical and nursing personnel should pay attention to the phenomenon of dementia fear in elderly inpatients and implement interventions to alleviate their dementia fear levels.