A difficult and uncomfortable subject that nevertheless must occasionally be discussed is suicide among the elderly. Despite the fact that we don’t often think of older adults when we consider suicide, it is unfortunately an issue. According to the American Association for Family and Marriage Therapy, “older adults make up 12% of the population, but account for 18% of all suicide deaths.” Elderly suicide statistics get worse as a person ages, with the highest possibility of elderly suicide in those over age 85. Since older adults do not typically seek help for mental health problems, it is up to family, friends, and caregivers to watch for signs and do their best to prevent suicides before they happen.
Elderly Suicide Risk Factors
There are several factors that can contribute to suicide in older adults.- Relationship issues - the number one cause of suicide. Breakups and divorces are traumatic and cause huge changes in a person’s life. Post-relationship suicide risk increases over the age of 50 and is significantly higher in men than women.
- Life crisis - Suicide can happen as soon as two weeks after a life crisis, typically the loss of a spouse.
- Substance abuse - One in three suicides are connected to substance abuse, usually alcohol.
- Physical health issues - The physical health issues that most often lead to death by suicide include traumatic brain injury, sleep disorders, and HIV.
- Employment/Financial Stress - In general, people are working longer and retiring later in life. This could be because people are staying healthier longer, but can also mean a person is struggling financially and must continue working.
Elderly Suicide Prevention
Suicide is preventable, and knowing what to look for will help. Some warning signs that your elderly loved one may be contemplating suicide are:- Losing interest in life, including things or activities that they once found enjoyable
- Cutting back on social interaction, self-care, and grooming
- Going off diets or not taking prescriptions
- Putting affairs in order, giving things away, and making changes to a will
- Expressing suicidal intent