Evaluation on Suicide in Older Adults
Chapter from the book:
Bilgili,
A.
(ed.)
2024.
Academic Research and Evaluations in Health Sciences II.
Synopsis
Suicide in older adults represents a significant global health issue. According to 2019 data from the World Health Organization, more than 700,000 suicides occurred worldwide, with rates higher among men compared to women. Notably, individuals aged 70 and above exhibit a sharp increase in suicide rates. Social isolation, loneliness, economic issues, and chronic illnesses are significant factors increasing suicide risk among older adults. Beyond physical health problems, mental disorders such as depression, anxiety and neurocognitive issues like dementia are also prominent triggers for suicide in this population. During the COVID-19 pandemic, factors such as social isolation, economic challenges, and restricted access to mental health services further exacerbated suicide tendencies. Warning signs of suicide in older adults include neglect of personal hygiene, withdrawal from social life, discussions about death, and organising personal belongings. Protective factors emphasise strengthening social support networks and improving access to healthcare. Family members and healthcare workers can play a crucial role in observing mental health changes and providing early intervention. In conclusion, comprehensive approaches and national strategies are essential to prevent suicide among older adults. Enhancing access to healthcare, reducing social isolation, and implementing programs to combat loneliness are critical measures in addressing this issue effectively.
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Copyright (c) 2024 Ali Bilgili; Kübra Yıldırım, Meryem Fırat, Mehtap Kavurmacı, Büşra Ceren Demirel Yıldız, Ayşenur Sarıaslan, İdris Yıldız, Ali İhsan Pala, Özgür Temiz, Gürkan Öztürk, Mehtap Tan, Zekai Halıcı, Ayla Ünsal, Papatya Karakurt, Nursel Cengiz, Gamze Kumral, Hatice Bozkurt Yılmaz, Hilmi Demirkıran, Nur Pınar Ayaz, Gülay Yılmazel, Remziye Cici, Gizem Yazdan Özen, Yalçın Gölcük, Burcu Demir Gökmen, Mine Cengiz, Mehmet Tankül, Fikret Etçi, Nadide Sevil Tülüce, Seher Palanbek Yavaş, Hüseyin Çetin Ketenci, Sezai Özkan, Kerime Öğüt Düzen, Gizem Helvacı, Nuray Dorukbaşı, Tahsin Gökhan Telatar, Melike Gülsever, Pakize Cantürk, Ayşe Kömürcü, Mehmet Cihan Yavaş, Fatma İrem Yardımeden, Hüseyin Altundal, Uğur Şeker