Evaluation of elderly suicides in Turkey between 2007 and 2022: an ecological study

This study analyzes trends in suicide rates among individuals aged 65 and over in Turkey from 2007 to 2023 and examines associations with socio-economic factors between 2013 and 2022.

Data were obtained from the Turkish Statistical Institute. Suicide rates per 100,000 were calculated by gender. Spearman correlation and the Joinpoint Regression Program (JRP) were used to explore associations with variables including poverty, labor force participation, unemployment, Gini coefficient, Consumer Price Index, minimum pension, and GDP.

Between 2007 and 2023, 6,373 elderly suicides were recorded, with an average rate of 5.77 per 100,000. Male suicide rates (9.90) were significantly higher than female rates (1.67) (p < 0.001). The highest rate was observed among those aged 75 and over (6.95 per 100,000). Regionally, the Aegean had the highest rate (5.26), while Istanbul had the lowest (3.28). From 2013 to 2022, elderly suicide rates declined annually by 1.19% (p = 0.011). A significant negative correlation was found between labor force participation and suicide rates (r = -0.847; p = 0.008).

Although elderly suicide rates in Turkey have declined, the issue remains a serious public health concern, warranting continued research and targeted interventions.