Suicidal Ideation in Older Adults: Exploring the Role of Depression, Hopelessness, Perceived Burdensomeness, and Thwarted Belongingness
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View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Suicidal thoughts in older adults increase when depression is combined with feeling like a burden. Addressing perceived burdensomeness is crucial for suicide prevention in this demographic.
Area Of Science
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Psychology
Background
- Suicide rates among older adults represent a significant global public health concern.
- Understanding precursors and mechanisms of suicide risk in older adults is vital for effective prevention.
Purpose Of The Study
- To examine the relationships between depression, hopelessness, thwarted belongingness, and perceived burdensomeness with suicidal ideation in older adults.
- To investigate perceived burdensomeness as a moderator in the association between depression and suicidal ideation.
Main Methods
- A correlational study was conducted with 284 community-dwelling older adults (average age 73.3 years).
- Data were analyzed to assess bivariate correlations between risk factors and suicidal ideation.
- Moderation analysis was performed to evaluate the role of perceived burdensomeness.
Main Results
- Both depression (r = .62) and hopelessness (r = .56) showed strong positive associations with suicidal ideation.
- All predictor variables (depression, hopelessness, thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness) were positively intercorrelated.
- Suicidal ideation was significantly elevated when depressive symptoms were paired with perceived burdensomeness.
Conclusions
- Perceived burdensomeness acts as a significant moderator, amplifying the risk of suicidal ideation in depressed older adults.
- Suicide prevention strategies for older adults should address both depressive symptoms and the perception of being a burden.
- Further research is needed to explore these relationships and inform targeted interventions.
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