[Suicidal behavior of the elderly]

Age extensively influences suicidal behaviour. Compared with younger persons, the elderly show higher suicide rates. Suicide attempts more often show characteristics of "unsuccessful suicides". Somewhat more frequent then in younger persons the suicide attempts are caused by depressive or schizophrenic psychosis. Nevertheless with the elderly the most frequent diagnoses are neurosis and depressive reaction. The elderly react depressive more often in relation to life events as conflicts with or loss of relatives or contracting a severe physical disease. Conclusions are drawn for a more adequate treatment of elderly suicidal patients with regard to their specific needs concerning psychological, physical and social problems. In many respects the G.P. seems to be the most suitable person for this task.