By Gary Geyer
Baby Boomers are more prone to committing suicide than any generation before them. To make matters scarier, boomers are approaching their senior years facing a fact that seniors have the highest suicide rate of any age group (and that rate grows even higher as we get older).
Those over 65 represent about 13% of the United States population. But when it comes to suicide, the percentage is close to 20%.
Put in more dramatic way…
Every 90 minutes a person 65 or older commits suicide.
Why is that?
There are of course, many factors: The perception of poor health rather than an actual specific illness; poor sleep quality; loneliness; lack of friends or relatives to confide in; fading memory and other brain disorders; financial stress and not to be overlooked, the possession of firearms. (Firearms are the most common method of suicide used in later life.)*
Surprisingly, medical illness and alcohol don’t seem to be a factor.
Suicide and the holidays
A factor that is made worse during the holiday season is loneliness. The absence of friends or relatives can be devastating. During the holiday season it’s especially painful.
Seniors are funny
Many seniors have no problem telling you about their aches and pains. But unlike younger generations, when it comes to their mental health-depression, loneliness, etc- their lips are sealed. There’s also a myth out there that it is normal to be depressed as one gets older. That leaves many people who might otherwise be helped by medications, go untreated.
Here are some symptoms to look out for:
An “empty” feeling, a worthless feeling, nervousness, restlessness, irritability, lack of enjoyment of things previously enjoyed, sleeping more (or less) than usual, chronic pain, persistent headaches and/or stomach aches, a feeling of being unloved and that life is not worth living anymore. Depressing, isn’t it?
Some hope
According to a recent study, strong social support and religious beliefs may act as a suicide deterrent. The study reported that many seniors say they get a great deal of comfort and support from their religion.
Doctors need to be more aware of the suicide potential of their older patients and start asking more direct questions. Instead of asking “Do you have feelings of depression?” a question like, “Are you having suicidal thoughts?” is more to the point.
What we all can do
We must start watching out for each other and notice warning signs. We need to show we care. Our friends (even those who are just acquaintances) and relatives need our support and understanding. A visit or even a phone call can make a difference.
We all deserve to live longer lives
Editor’s note: This is a serious problem that can effect us all. Please offer your suggestions on how we all can help.
*Experts believe it is not the presence of firearms in the home that is the risk factor but rather the recent purchase of a firearm. In states that have background checks or waiting periods for handgun purchases, suicide rates have declined dramatically.
Gary Geyer is Chief Editor of LetLifeIn.com
Good article except for the firearm thing. Why always try to toss that into the mix as something “deadly” when it is not – CANNOT – be the actual fire arm that does anyone harm. If a Senior, or anyone of any age for that matter, uses a firearm to “off” him/herself, the problem started LOOONNNNNGGGGGG before a gun ever entered the picture. It takes a certain state of mind to do something that drastic, not a piece of metal that holds a bullet.
Also remember, a gun can save a defenseless senior’s life if put in jeopardy by a thug.
Suicide is a permanent solution to a host of temporary problems.
Prevention is the key to reduce the suicide rate amongst seniors. I agree with mjl, the feeling of suicide starts long before they purchase a hand gun. That is only the means to the end…it is not the trigger….Adult Medical and Social Day Care is the solution. Seniors have the opportunity to socialize while receiving supportive services by professionals on a daily basis. Maybe as a society we should look at preventive measures not only signs and symptoms of suicide. Let’s make the next generation of baby boomers happy in their later years…we need to take care of our seniors…their past is our future…
Joan Marie Granato,
President of Future Focus Inc.
I am grieving the loss of my 7 month old grandson, my brother, my aging mother is no longer the mother I remember, and I feel so so empty and alone. I would not use a gun. It is easier to take sleeping pills, go in the garage and start the car and let the fumes take you out. I am 70, still trying to work to pay bills, take care of a mean demented 92 year old mother, and it is the one year anniversary of my grandchild’s death. Do I want to committ suicide. I SURE DO !! will I , I am not sure yet. but, the plans are there
You never think that senior suicide will happen in a happy household, but think again. One year ago my husband bought a handgun and told me that he wanted it for home protection. At 63 he felt more vulnerable with theft on the rise, so he thought a gun would be a wise precaution and in Florida it is legal. Then…..in March 2010, he took his own life at home. While I called 911, the police were unable to get to him before he made the decision. It is so traumatic to those living and a very sad ending to a perfect 38 yr. marriage. I believe my story is more common than most people want to believe. Just go to a suicide prevention support meeting and you will hear your story over and over again.