Older Adults
Whist suicide is rare in older adults, it remains a risk. Data tells us that suicide rates rise in later old age, particularly for men, with men aged 85+ having similar rates of death by suicide as men aged 25-29.
Older adults and suicide
Suicide is rare in older adults, however there is a number of risk factors such as the deterioration of physical health, long-term conditions, pain, self-harm, bereavement, relationship breakdown, elder abuse, caring responsibility, that may contribute to increased suicide risk. Life changes such as retirement or bereavement can lead to a loss of sense of purpose and lack of social connectedness which can impact mental wellbeing. It can also be challenging navigating the health and social care system. It is important to understand and address risk factors to support suicide prevention in older adults.
Having value is important-using retirement and time to pursue leisure activities, volunteer, or participate in community can help foster connectiveness and a sense of purpose.
Interventions for older people should focus on:
- – Promoting positive mental wellbeing
- – Education/awareness raising – among professionals, general population and older adults
- – Better recognition and treatment of mental disorders in later life
- – Restrict access to means
- – Community support programmes to address social risk factors
- – Better management of physical health conditions including pain
- – Accessible and acceptable services
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