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Suicidal thoughts and associated factors in an elderly population
Y Forsell1, A F Jorm, B Winblad
1Department of Geriatric Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.
Acta Psychiatrica Scandinavica
|February 1, 1997
Summary
Approximately 13.3% of elderly individuals reported suicidal thoughts in a recent study. Frequent suicidal thoughts were strongly linked to major depression and increased disability, highlighting the need for psychiatric assessment.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Background:
- Suicidal ideation is a significant concern in the elderly population.
- Understanding prevalence and associated factors is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of suicidal thoughts in an elderly cohort.
- To identify factors associated with suicidal ideation in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- Population-based study involving 969 elderly subjects.
- Physician examinations, including psychiatric assessments and informant interviews.
Main Results:
- 13.3% of elderly subjects experienced suicidal thoughts within the last two weeks.
- Suicidal thoughts correlated with major depression, disability, institutionalization, visual issues, and psychotropic drug use.
Conclusions:
- A significant minority of elderly individuals experience suicidal thoughts.
- Associated factors underscore the complexity and need for comprehensive psychiatric evaluation in elderly patients expressing suicidal ideation.