Purpose: This study was performed to investigate the influencing factors of cognitive function and depression in elderly. Method: From 3 provinces, 282 elders who resided in community and facilities completed structured questionnaires, including cognitive functions, depression, self-esteem, ADL, and IADL. Data were analyzed by applying ${chi}^2$-test, ANOVA, partial correlation coefficient, and stepwise multiple regression analysis with SAS 8.12. Results: Community dwelling aged people showed higher scores in MMSE-K, self-esteem, ADL and IADL, and showed lower scores in depression than facility elders. MMSE-K was positively correlated in self-esteem, ADL, and personal cognition of health, except depression. Major factors that affect cognitive function of elderly were residual type, age, and IADL. In addition, major factors that affect depression of elderly were self-esteem, personal cognition of health, and marital status. Conclusions: Based on the results above, it is necessary to identify the status of cognition and depression in the elderly, and to develop nursing intervention programs, which improve cognitive function and reduce depression for aged, especially for the facility admitted aged.