Objectives: This study intends to explore older patients’ experiences of the emotional support received from registered nurses (RNs). We also aimed to gain deeper knowledge about the process of how getting the support they need is managed by the patient.

Methods: The study was conducted using the grounded theory method. Data were collected by interviewing 18 patients between 80 and 96 years old.

Results: Reasons why older patients experienced the emotional support received from the RN are reflected in the categories ‘Meets my needs when I am irresolute’, ‘Meets my needs when I am vulnerable’ and ‘Meets my needs when I am in need of sympathy’. Reasons to the emotional support resulted in that patients experienced ‘A sense of being able to hand over’, which is therefore the core category of this study.

Conclusion: Older patients’ experiences of emotional support are about obtaining relief. Patients were active participants and had strategies for which they wanted to share their emotions with the RN. In order to develop participatory care for older patients, we need more knowledge about how emotional support can be used as a nursing intervention. © 2014 Taylor & Francis.