Chapter 23

Suicide Among the Elderly

Mario Amore, Stefano Baratta, Cristina Di Vittorio, Marco Innamorati and David Lester

Abstract

Suicide among older adults is a critical public health problem. International statistics indicate an average of one suicide in the world every 90 minutes among those 65 years of age and older. The assessment of suicide risk in older people should include the assessment of risk factors such as the presence of physical illness, functional limitations, the severity of depression and hopelessness, a lack of reasons for living, social isolation and the occurrence of stressful life events. In addition, greater emphasis should be placed in medical education on the recognition and effective treatment of depressive disorders and suicidal states in older people.

Total Pages: 267-278 (12)

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