Introduction
Suicide is a grave public health crisis and one of the leading causes of death, especially in the United States. The rate of completed suicides in older adults has risen, which biological, social, psychological, and spiritual processes influence (Alés, 2022). Generally, suicide can be described simply as the act of deliberately taking one’s own life. This study can help to identify risk and protective factors that are characteristic of the elderly population and promote resilience among this category of the population.
Risk Factors for Elderly Suicide
The factors that put the elderly at risk of committing suicide are numerous, and they tend to cut across the biological, social, psychological, and even spiritual aspects. From a biological perspective, chronic diseases, pain, and disability increase the risk dramatically. These diseases include but are not limited to cancer and neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that triggers hopelessness and restricted self-management (Lin, 2020). Also, age-related changes in the brain have effects where mood-regulating hormones, such as serotonin, are reduced, and therefore, we become more vulnerable to depression and even suicide.
Other parts of the social factors also contribute significantly. This paper identifies that social disconnectedness and the lack of companionship are familiar among older adults with partners or loved ones who are no longer alive. Small social supports are likely to unmask the isolation where individuals feel like a burden to others. Elderly individuals living in rural areas or without access to community resources may face compounded challenges due to the limited availability of mental health services (Sobering, 2021). Economic hardship, especially among retirees living on fixed incomes, can also heighten stress and despair.
From a psychiatric point of view, depression is among the most significant risk factors for older adults to commit suicide. Age-related losses, such as reduced independence and perceived societal value, contribute to the development of depressive disorders. Cognitive distortions, such as catastrophizing and feelings of worthlessness, may further perpetuate suicidal ideation. Furthermore, the stigma surrounding mental health issues often prevents older adults from seeking help, leaving symptoms untreated.
Spiritual factors may either mitigate or exacerbate suicidal risk. For some elderly individuals, a lack of spiritual connection or existential despair about aging and mortality contributes to a sense of meaninglessness. Conversely, those with strong religious or spiritual beliefs may feel constrained by moral prohibitions against suicide, which can act as a protective factor (Freitas et al., 2020).
Protective Factors Against Elderly Suicide
Protective factors serve as crucial buffers against suicide risk. Biologically, access to effective pain management and treatment for chronic conditions can alleviate physical suffering, reducing feelings of hopelessness. Early identification and treatment of mental health conditions, such as depression, with medications and therapy, also play a key role in preventing suicide.
Fostering connectedness socially is essential. Programs that facilitate community engagement, such as senior centers, peer support groups, and intergenerational activities, combat loneliness and provide a sense of belonging. Family involvement is also vital; regular interaction with loved ones reinforces feeling valued and supported (Ahmed, 2024). Policies promoting access to affordable healthcare, housing, and financial stability can further mitigate stressors that elevate suicide risk.
Psychologically, interventions that build resilience, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), have proven effective. CBT helps individuals reframe negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies. Incorporating life review therapy, which encourages reflection on personal achievements and cherished memories, can also foster a sense of purpose and reduce depressive symptoms (Zeppegno, 2019). Mental health education for caregivers and healthcare providers ensures that signs of suicidal ideation are identified and addressed promptly.
Spiritually, individuals who find meaning and hope through faith, meditation, or other practices often exhibit greater resilience. Clergy and spiritual counselors can critically support those grappling with existential concerns. Promoting a sense of purpose through volunteerism or creative outlets can fulfill similar spiritual needs for individuals without formal religious affiliations.
Explaining the Increase in Completed Suicides Among the Elderly
Several factors contribute to the recent rise in suicides among the elderly. Demographic shifts, including the aging of the Baby Boomer generation, have resulted in a larger elderly population with diverse needs and challenges. Advances in healthcare have prolonged life expectancy, but often at the cost of increased years spent managing chronic illnesses or disabilities, which can diminish the quality of life.
Social changes also play a role. Modern society’s emphasis on youth and productivity can marginalize older adults, leading to feelings of irrelevance. Family structures have evolved, with fewer multigenerational households, leaving many seniors without immediate support (Silva, 2021). Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated isolation and disrupted access to mental health services, particularly for older people.
Economic factors, such as rising healthcare costs and the inadequacy of retirement savings, contribute to financial insecurity. Psychologically, many seniors struggle with the cumulative impact of losses, whether personal, physical, or social (Wand et al., 2020). The increasing prevalence of firearm ownership among this demographic also facilitates access to lethal means, increasing the likelihood of suicide attempts being completed.
Conclusion
The rise in completed suicides among the elderly is a multifaceted issue requiring a comprehensive approach. Addressing biological, social, psychological, and spiritual factors through targeted interventions can reduce suicide risk and enhance protective factors. To increase access to care, raise awareness of mental health issues, and create environments that value older individuals’ dignity and well-being, policymakers, healthcare professionals, and communities must collaborate. To reduce its occurrence and save lives, it is critical to acknowledge the complexity of suicide in this demographic.
References
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