In previous research, two major sets of variables have been identified as correlates of emotional well-being among the elderly: measures of physical health and of social support. To suggest variables predictive of in-hospital discharge planning, and of emotional well-being after a severe incident of ill health, the Posthospital Support Study examined emotional well-being among elderly patients (N=132) who had been hospitalized for arteriosclerotic heart disease or for an operation following hip fracture or for replacement of a hip joint. These conditions were chosen because patients required some help or services from others (both formal and informal) after hospital discharge. Patients were interviewed just prior to hospital discharge and again within three months, on the average, after discharge to the community. Emotional well-being was measured by the Bradburn Affect Balance Score and anxiety and depression were measured by the Profile of Mood States. Additional data were obtained from hospital medical records, informal interviews with hospital staff, and caregiver (N=80) interviews. The results showed that only the indicators of health and severity of problems directly predicted well-being. Ill health was associated with and predictive of a poorer mood state. Severity of health problems predicted negative mood in the form of high anxiety. Some measures of poor health predicted lessened emotional well-being. The provision of services, formal or informal, did not compensate for or relieve poorer physical health or more severe health problems; rather, these services appeared to be indicators of need. A six-page list of references is included. (NRB)