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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 29, 2026

Validation of a Psychosocial Intervention on Body Image in Older People: An Experimental Design
07:40

Validation of a Psychosocial Intervention on Body Image in Older People: An Experimental Design

Published on: May 31, 2021

Understanding why older people develop a wish to die: a qualitative interview study.

M L Rurup1, H R W Pasman, J Goedhart

  • 1Department of Public and Occupational Health, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

Crisis
|September 24, 2011
PubMed
Summary

Many older adults contemplate death, often triggered by trauma, loss, or illness. This feeling stems from a perceived lack of control over unacceptable life situations, seeking death as a release.

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: May 29, 2026

Validation of a Psychosocial Intervention on Body Image in Older People: An Experimental Design
07:40

Validation of a Psychosocial Intervention on Body Image in Older People: An Experimental Design

Published on: May 31, 2021

Area of Science:

  • Gerontology
  • Psychology
  • Sociology

Background:

  • 10-20% of older adults in Europe report a wish to die.
  • Understanding the development of death wishes in older populations is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the underlying reasons and developmental pathways behind the wish to die in older individuals.

Main Methods:

  • In-depth interviews conducted with 31 older adults expressing a wish to die.
  • Open coding and inductive analysis used to develop a conceptual framework.
  • Participants recruited from two existing cohort studies.

Main Results:

  • Death wishes were triggered by sudden trauma or developed gradually due to adversity, aging, illness, or depression.
  • Participants felt trapped in unacceptable situations with no perceived control, leading to resignation.
  • Common themes included widowhood, loneliness, victimhood, dependency, and loss of purpose; death was seen as a means to regain control.

Conclusions:

  • The wish to die emerges as a perceived positive solution to unbearable life events or circumstances.
  • Individuals may eventually find a balance between the wish to live and the wish to die.