Abstract: Pancreatic cystic neoplasm (PCN) is characterized by cystic degeneration with a low incidence. With the development of imaging technology and the popularization of screening, the detection rate of this disease has been increasing in recent years, especially in the elderly population. Due to the multiple subtypes of PCN, difficult differential diagnosis, and the potential risk of malig-nant transformation, the formulation of reasonable diagnosis and treatment strategy is the key to treat PCN. Although many clinical guidelines have been released, the diagnosis and treatment strategies of PCN are still controversial. Elderly patients are generally weak, some with serious comorbidities, and have poor tolerance to surgery. In the process of diagnosis and treatment, clinicians need to pay special attention, carefully evaluate and weigh the advantages and disadvantages, so as to make the best plan for treatment. Based on the current guidelines and clinical experience, the authors summarize the diagnosis, surgical indications, and the whole‑course management strategies of elderly patients with PCN, in order to provide suggestions for the diagnosis and treatment of this disease.