BACKGROUND: This study addresses the need for a systematic analysis of research trends and hotspots in the mental health of rural elderly populations, a field that has gained increasing attention due to the growing global aging population. The previous literature has explored specific issues such as loneliness, depression, and social support, and yet a comprehensive review of research development, key themes, and gaps remains lacking. METHODS: Using CiteSpace software (CiteSpace 6.3.R1), this study conducts a bibliometric analysis of 1545 articles from the Web of Science Core Collection and 1793 articles from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure. The analysis identifies key themes, collaboration networks, and the evolution of research focus over time. RESULTS: The results reveal that while Chinese research in this field is highly active and diverse, international collaboration is limited, underscoring the need for stronger global partnerships. CONCLUSIONS: Emerging research areas, such as the impact of socioeconomic factors, intergenerational support, and rural healthcare policies, are identified. These findings provide valuable insights into the current state of research and highlight opportunities for future studies and policy-making aimed at improving the mental health and quality of life of rural elderly populations worldwide.