Suicide in the elderly: a report from India

Those aged 60 years and older number 41 million, forming 7% of India's population. The suicide rate among the elderly is higher than the national rate. The data derived from the Government of India Statistics, from suicide prevention centers, suicide autopsies, geropsychiatric clinics, and survey studies indicate that suicide in the elderly is increasing. Depressive disease is the leading cause for suicide, followed by physical diseases and poverty. Family integration and social integration were found to be more important than "living in the family" or "living alone." Certain cultural suicide counters and the currently available prevention services are discussed.