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Related Experiment Videos

Suicide among the elderly: levels and trends.

John L McIntosh1

  • 1Department of Psychology.

The American Journal of Orthopsychiatry
|April 1, 1985
PubMed
Summary

Older adults face the highest suicide rates in the U.S., a critical mental health issue. This study examines geriatric suicide trends and prevention strategies for this often-overlooked demographic.

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Area of Science:

  • Geriatric psychiatry
  • Public health
  • Epidemiology

Background:

  • Suicide rates are notably highest among the elderly in the U.S.
  • Geriatric suicide represents a significant and often neglected mental health concern.
  • Despite public attention on youth suicide, older adults remain a vulnerable population.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To present national suicide levels and trends among the aged in the U.S. from 1933 to 1978.
  • To analyze these trends by sex and race.
  • To explore explanations for observed trends and provide information on recognition and prevention of geriatric suicide.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of national-level suicide data for the elderly population.
  • Examination of data stratified by sex and race.
  • Review of historical trends spanning over four decades (1933-1978).

Main Results:

  • U.S. suicide rates consistently remain highest in the elderly population.
  • Detailed national trends in geriatric suicide are presented, broken down by sex and race.
  • The study provides insights into the factors influencing these long-term trends.

Conclusions:

  • Geriatric suicide is a persistent and critical public health issue requiring focused attention.
  • Understanding historical trends by demographic factors is crucial for effective prevention.
  • The study underscores the need for enhanced recognition and intervention strategies for suicide in older adults.

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