Prevention of suicide in old age

The prevention of suicide in old age has received little attention, despite suicide rates being highest in older men. About 90% of older people who attempt or complete suicide have a mental disorder, usually depression, which often has been inadequately treated. Other treatable contributing factors include pain, grief, loneliness, alcoholism and carer stress. Few suicides in older people occur in the context of terminal illness or can be regarded as "rational". Educational programs are required to improve the recognition and treatment of depression in primary care.