Citation

Osgood NJ. Int. Rev. Psychiatry 1992; 4(2): 217-223.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1992, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.3109/09540269209066320

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

In the United States the suicide rate for those aged 65 and older is 50% higher than the rate for teens or the national rate. Elders most at risk for suicide are white males, particularly if they are widowed. Aging-related loss and stress, depression, and alcoholism, major precipitating factors in late-life suicide, are discussed in this article. Accurate diagnosis and assessment of depression, alcoholism, and potential suicide are keys to suicide prevention among the elderly. Assessment strategies and techniques highlighted include: diagnostic interview; physical examination; laboratory tests; history taking; and rating scales. © 1992 Informa UK Ltd All rights reserved: reproduction in whole or part not permitted.

Language: en

Keywords

human; suicide; aged; united states; alcoholism; depression; stress; interview; review; rating scale; physical examination; psychiatric diagnosis; diagnostic accuracy; anamnesis; widow; laboratory test; caucasian