RESOURCES
Suicide Prevention
Needed For Elderly
The elderly are the highest risk segment of the U.S. population
for suicide. Mental Health experts expect the number to rise
as baby boomers age and the country’s mortality rate increases.
The overall U.S. suicide rate is 11 per 100,000 people.
The figure rises to 14 per 100,000 people for those 65 and
older, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
These figures are based on 2004 data, the most recent available.
Older adults are more determined, less likely to seek help,
and more lethal in their suicide attempts.
Older people who were in their 70’s referred primarily to
financial problems, social isolation, fear, sadness, loneliness,
and physical illness as their cause for suicide, according
to a 2002 study by Salib, Cawley, & Healy.
Depression is the most common diagnosis in older adults
who have attempted suicide, according to a 1993 study by
Zweig & Hinrichsen. Depression frequently accompanies
a chronic disease, especially when the disease impairs function
such as mobility or cognitive ability. Several other factors
such as genetics, interpersonal relations, and stressful life
events can also have an impact.
Depression is under-detected at all ages according to mental
health groups.
However, there are less treatment options for the elderly
than younger people. This alarming situation prompted Sen.
Harry Read (NV), who lost his father to suicide, to propose
funding more suicide prevention programs for the elderly and
changing a Medicare coverage rule that forces seniors to pay
more for outpatient mental health services than other medical
care.
Experts say there need to be services tailored to the elderly
because they handle depression differently than younger patients.
Reverse Mortgages can play a small part in helping relieve
some of the issues causing depression and suicide in older
adults. Reverse mortgages represent a lifestyle solution designed
expressly for seniors at least 62 years of age. The program
provides seniors with funds to continue to stay in their home
without worry of monthly payment. Funds can be used for any
purpose such as paying off a mortgage, monthly living or medical
expenses.
Signs of Depression
Persistent sad or anxious mood
Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
Feelings of guild or worthlessness
Loss of interest in hobbies or activities
Fatigue or decreased energy
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Insomnia or oversleeping
Changes in appetite or weight
Thoughts of death or suicide
Restlessness or irritability
Headaches or chronic pain
Source: National Institute of Mental Health
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