Work

Suicide in later life

Year: 1997

Type: article

Abstract: This paper addresses a number of issues related to suicide among person over the age of 60 in the United States. We begin with a presentation of the epidemiology of late life suicide in the United States, followed by discussion of related demographic information, including known risk factors for both suicide attempts and completed suicides. We then proceed to discuss issues related to the assessment of suicidality among older men and women. The next issue is the topic of “rational” suicide, which is a highly controversial, yet increasingly common phenomenon, to which psychotherapists and health care providers will be exposed in working with older adults. Finally, the paper concludes with suggestions for intervention in order to reduce suicide ideation and improve the individual's quality of life.

Source: Behavior Therapy

DOI: 10.1016/s0005-7894(97)80032-9

Authors: Dolores Gallagher-Thompson, Nancy J. Osgood

Institutions: VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Stanford University, Virginia Commonwealth University

Language: English

Topic: Suicide and Self-Harm Studies

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,600