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Suicide among the elderly in Israel
1Center for Research and Study of the Family, School of Social Work, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Israel.
Death Studies
|June 6, 1997
Summary
Suicide attempts and completions among Israel's elderly (65+) have increased recently. However, elderly suicide rates in Israel remain lower than in many Western nations.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Elderly suicide rates are a growing concern globally.
- Understanding trends in Israel provides insights into aging populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze changes in suicide attempts and completions among Israelis aged 65+.
- To compare Israeli elderly suicide rates with those in Western countries.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of suicide data from the Israeli Ministry of Health and Central Bureau of Statistics.
- Examination of data spanning multiple decades (1962-1971, 1977-1986, and earlier).
Main Results:
- A rise in both attempted and completed suicides among the elderly in Israel was observed in the last decade.
- Despite the increase, Israeli elderly suicide rates are still lower compared to selected European and Western countries.
Conclusions:
- Findings suggest a need for further research into elderly suicide, considering factors like family care, religious traditions, and social policy.
- The increasing trend necessitates urgent attention to understand and address suicide among the aging population.