Suicidal ideation and related factors among dementia patients

It is generally thought that people with dementia are not able to attempt suicide because of impaired executive function. Little research is available about suicidal ideation among dementia patients. The present study examines 1) the sociodemographic and clinical features of dementia patients with suicidal ideation and 2) the effect of suicidal ideation on caregiver burden.

A total of 634 dementia outpatients and their family caregivers participated in this study. Comparisons of variables were made among three groups: patients with suicidal ideation, patients with depression without suicidal ideation, and patients with neither suicidal ideation nor depression. Data were collected between April 2007 and July 2013.

Suicidal ideation was seen in 64 patients (10.1%). Patients with suicidal ideation had a significantly higher rate of behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) (P<0.001). Caregivers of patients with suicidal ideation felt a higher caregiver burden, even after adjusting for BPSD score (P<0.01).

Suicidal ideation was assessed by interview with caregivers, so we may have overlooked people who had suicidal ideation but did not express it to their caregivers.

Suicidal ideation among dementia patients should receive greater attention. Adequate assessment of suicidal ideation and psychological support for both patients with suicidal ideation and their caregivers are needed.