Citation

Erel O, Aydin-Demiraǧ S, Katkici U. Turk Geriatri Derg. 2011; 14(4): 306-310.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2011, Geriatri Derneği)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Homicide, the most unacceptable way of abuse, is increasing especially among elderly who have insufficient self-defense. Besides, elderly who have no family or social support, commit suicide. Since they are preventable, homicide and suicide are very important for people above 65 years old. Materials and Method: The autopsy records between 01.01.2003-31.12.2007 of the cases above 65 years old were reviewed and findings of the 148 homicide-suicide cases were assessed.

RESULTS: During five-year-period, 10.9% (148) of the total 1347 autopsies were elderly. Among total, suicide rate was 11.5% and homicide rate was 7.4%. The death cause of the half of the homicide-originated elderly women was suffocation. The common features of these cases were; living alone, unknown perpetrator and found decayed. Of suicide cases, 13 were under drug therapy. Two of the cases under psychiatric therapy had previous suicide attempt. Among suicide cases, two of three female cases and six of 14 male cases used hanging method. Of the total homicide-suicide-originated cases, 64.3% were found dead at home.

CONCLUSION:Lack of social and psychological support, which can lead to homicide and suicide, is increasing day by day.

Language: en

Keywords

Aged; human; Homicide; homicide; suicide; Suicide; Autopsy; female; male; asphyxia; aged; autopsy; social support; suicide attempt; review; major clinical study; psychological aspect; psychiatric treatment; medical record review