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Suicide pact in a depressed elderly couple: case report
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
|March 1, 1978
Summary
An elderly couple with depression and physical ailments attempted suicide but received psychiatric treatment. They recovered with amitriptyline and psychotherapy, showing improved well-being over two years.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Elderly individuals facing depression and physical health issues may experience diminished quality of life.
- Suicide pacts in couples, while rare, highlight severe distress and shared psychopathology.
Observation:
- An elderly couple, suffering from depression and multiple physical problems, formed a suicide pact due to their perceived lifestyle.
- The wife's inability to proceed with the pact led to their admission into a psychiatric hospital.
Findings:
- The couple received a 3-week course of appropriate treatment, including amitriptyline and psychotherapy.
- Close follow-up for two years post-discharge indicated successful management and recovery.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of comprehensive psychiatric care for elderly couples experiencing co-occurring depression and physical ailments.
- Effective psychotherapeutic and pharmacological interventions can significantly improve outcomes and prevent suicide in vulnerable elderly populations.
- Understanding psycho- and socio-dynamic factors is crucial for tailoring long-term treatment strategies.