Citation

Mertens B, Sorenson SB. Am. J. Public Health 2012; 102(3): 396-400.

Affiliation

At the time that this article was written, Brian Mertens was with the Health and Societies program, and Susan B. Sorenson with the School of Social Policy and Practice, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, American Public Health Association)

DOI

10.2105/AJPH.2011.300404

PMID

22390501

Abstract

In the United States, more than 17 million people aged 65 years or older own a firearm. They have the highest rate of suicide by a firearm, and recent data suggest that a disproportionate number apply to carry a concealed weapon. At least one new handgun has been designed and marketed for older people. Memory, thinking, and judgment as well as physical and behavioral competence issues related to an elderly person's safe operation of a motor vehicle apply to firearms, too. Gun availability can pose a particular risk to those with dementia and to their caretakers. The elderly constitute a substantial and rapidly growing population and market segment for whom the public health implications of firearm production, promotion, access, ownership, and use merit consideration.

Language: en