Suicidal Risk in Older Patients with Depression During COVID-19 Pandemic: a Case-Control Study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Psychiatry
• Mental Health

Background:

• Late-life depression (LLD) is a significant concern in older adults.
• The COVID-19 pandemic presented unique challenges to mental health, particularly for vulnerable populations.
• Suicidal ideation is a critical outcome requiring investigation in older adults with depression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare suicidal ideation levels between older adults with LLD and healthy controls during the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To identify predictors of suicidal ideation in older adults with LLD.
• To understand the role of psychological factors in suicidal ideation during a public health crisis.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving older adults with LLD and healthy controls recruited during March-April 2020.
• Assessment of depressive symptoms, pandemic-related perceptions, loneliness, coping efficacy, and suicidal ideation via telephone interviews.
• Statistical analyses including regression and mediation to identify predictors and pathways.

Main Results:

• Older adults with LLD exhibited significantly higher suicidal ideation compared to healthy controls, even after controlling for depression severity and medical comorbidity.
• Coping efficacy and loneliness were significant predictors of suicidal ideation.
• Loneliness also significantly predicted perceived stress, and coping efficacy mediated the relationship between group and suicidal ideation.

Conclusions:

• Older adults with LLD face elevated suicidal risk and necessitate prompt mental health interventions.
• Coping efficacy and loneliness are crucial factors influencing suicidal ideation and stress in this demographic.
• Targeting these psychological factors may be key in mitigating suicidal risk in older adults with depression.