Citation

Franks R, Burnett DO, Evans RR. Ala. Couns. Assoc. J. 2012; 38(2): 32-42.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2012, Alabama Counseling Association)

DOI

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PMID

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Abstract

Suicide is a preventable public health concern affecting the nation as the 10th leading cause of death. The prevalence of suicide among the elderly is higher than any other group. Risk factors attributed to this phenomenon are depression, social isolation, substance abuse, poor physical health or function, financial stress, and access to lethal means, among others. Protective factors have been identified, as well. Prevention of suicide among the elderly is of utmost importance, and national and state-level task forces and prevention strategies are leading prevention efforts. Suicidality is considered to be "a state of total pain, which, coupled with neurological impairment, limits the perceived options to either enduring (suffering through) or ending utter agony." This represents an important paradigm shift in the way researchers believe suicide occurs. This article provides an overview of factors that contribute to suicide among the elderly, prevention strategies, and examples of national, state and community-based prevention programs.

Language: en