Citation

Tobias CR, Pary R, Lippmann S. Am. Fam. Physician 1992; 45(4): 1707-1713.

Affiliation

Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Louisville (Ky.) School of Medicine.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1992, American Academy of Family Physicians)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

1558046

Abstract

Prompt recognition of suicidal intent can prevent suicide in the elderly. Some psychiatric disorders, such as depression, psychoses and organic brain syndromes, can predispose these persons to suicide, as can medical disorders that result in pain, disability or dysfunction. Other factors that increase the risk for suicide include chemical dependency and changing life events. Anti-depressant medications with a low anticholinergic and sedative profile are preferred because of age-related physiologic changes. Electroconvulsive therapy is reserved for serious cases.

Language: en