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Suicide among the elderly in Honolulu County: a multiethnic comparative study (1987-1992).
D Purcell1, C R Thrush, P L Blanchette
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Hawaii at Manoa, USA.
International Psychogeriatrics
|April 6, 1999
Summary
Elder suicide rates are highest among all age groups. This study examined ethnic differences in suicide methods among elderly individuals in Honolulu, revealing significant gender and ethnic variations.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Elderly individuals exhibit the highest suicide rates across all age demographics.
- Ethnic variability in elder suicide methods remains understudied.
- Understanding these disparities is crucial for targeted prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate ethnic and gender differences in suicide completion methods among the elderly.
- To analyze demographic trends in elder suicide within Honolulu County.
- To identify patterns in healthcare utilization preceding elder suicide.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of coroner's reports for completed elder suicides (age 65+) in Honolulu County (1987-1992).
- Data extraction included age, gender, ethnicity, and method of suicide.
- Comparison of findings with existing elder suicide research.
Main Results:
- The mean age of completed suicides was 75 years, with the highest incidence in the 80+ age group.
- Hanging was the predominant method, followed by jumping, firearms, and poisoning.
- Significant gender and ethnic variations were observed in the chosen suicide methods.
Conclusions:
- Ethnic and gender factors significantly influence suicide methods in the elderly population.
- Nearly half of the studied elderly individuals accessed healthcare within six months of their death.
- Further research is needed to address ethnic disparities in elder suicide prevention.