The ability to age is a gift that not everyone is granted, but it comes with some unique stressors. Social isolation, the loss of friends and spouses and declining physical health can all contribute to mental health issues in older adults, particularly for those with untreated mental illnesses such as depression.
According to recent data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, those aged 85 years and over had the highest rate of suicide in 2022, followed closely by those aged 75-84 years. Whether this trend points to inadequate mental health services for seniors, a lack of social support or other underlying factors, it indicates the need for targeted interventions.
In this article, we explore the trends related to advanced age and suicide, including risk factors, warning signs and suicide prevention resources for seniors.
Trends and Statistics Around Suicide in Older Adults
When we consider the age demographics most at risk for suicide, we typically don’t think of seniors. However, recent statistics highlight the need for mental health services and interventions among older adults.
General Statistics on Suicide in Older Adults
In 2022, the CDC found that those aged 85 years and older had a suicide rate of about 23 incidents per 100,000 people, and those between 75 and 84 years of age had a slightly lower rate of 20.3 incidents. This outpaced all other age demographics, including those in which we expect to see increased suicide rates. For example, among those aged 25-34, the frequency was lower at 19.0, and those in the 45-54 age bracket experienced a frequency of 19.2.
Further data from the CDC shows an uptick in suicides among seniors in recent years. Between 2018 and 2022, the suicide rate among those aged 75-84 years climbed by over 23%, while those aged 85 and over saw a surge of about 20%.
Demographic Breakdown
Aside from age, gender has a significant impact on suicide risk. Among those aged 65 and over, males consistently accounted for about 90% of suicides in 2022, and provisional data from 2023 and 2024 paints a similar picture.
According to one expert, several factors make men more likely than women to commit suicide. These include the presence of depression, social isolation, declining health, functional impairments and access to lethal means.
Where an individual lives also contributes to their suicide risk. In 2022, the states that saw the highest rates of senior suicides included Nevada, Oregon, Montana and Colorado. Here, elderly suicide rates ranged from 40-56 incidents per 100,000 people. The northeastern states saw the lowest rates, with Maryland, New York, New Jersey and Massachusetts reporting rates at or below 10 incidents per 100,000 people.
Risk Factors Contributing to Mental Health Challenges
Advanced age is a mixed bag of blessings and challenges. For many, those challenges have a significant impact on mental health and serve as the main causes of suicide in older people.
Physical Health and Chronic Illness
Overall, about 92% of people aged 65 and over are living with at least one chronic health condition, including a terminal illness diagnosis, and 77% have two or more. Additionally, about a quarter of those aged 65-74 and half of those aged 75 and over have hearing impairments. Advanced age also results in reduced independence for many seniors, with about 40% of men and 53% of women aged 85 and over needing help with daily living activities.
Social Isolation and Loneliness
Loneliness is prevalent in older adults, with a recent study indicating that about half of those aged 60 and over are at risk of social isolation. Losing a spouse, lack of family support due to estrangement or geography and living alone all contribute to this, increasing the individual’s risk of depression and suicidal ideation.
Cognitive Decline and Mental Illness
Most seniors experience age-related changes in cognition. These changes are typically mild and don’t interfere with day-to-day life. However, for some, memory and cognition changes are more pronounced and disruptive, and they become a risk factor for suicidal thoughts.
Financial Stress and Loss of Purpose
About one in 10 seniors in the United States live below the federal poverty line. When considering other factors such as local living costs and access to subsidized financial assistance programs, this number climbs to over 14%. Unexpected expenses, cost of living increases and increasing medical needs can strain retirement funds, and the lack of a steady income can challenge an individual’s sense of purpose and identity.
Recognizing Warning Signs and Reaching Out for Support
When it comes to preventing suicide, knowing the warning signs to watch for is paramount. Family members, friends, caregivers and health care professionals all play a significant role in providing strong social support networks for at-risk individuals.
Common Warning Signs of Geriatric Suicide
Often, certain behaviors can indicate thoughts of self-harm. These may include:
- Withdrawal from friends and family
- Giving away possessions
- Significant mood changes
- Talking about feeling like a burden to others
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Exhibiting feelings of hopelessness or a lack of purpose
How to Have Conversations with Older Adults About Suicide
Talking about mental health and senior suicide is never easy, but it can be important in saving a life. For individuals concerned for a loved one’s safety, it’s important to tread lightly with this topic, always approaching it with sensitivity and without guilt or judgment. By creating a safe space for discussion, family members and friends can encourage open communication.
The Role of Family Members and Caregivers
Family members and caregivers who see an older adult regularly play a vital role in addressing senior suicide. These are the people who can tune in to the individual’s behavior and mental health and reach out to local resources and mental health care providers if they notice changes.
Encouraging Professional Help
Although a senior’s loved ones can offer support and encouragement, they don’t need to bear the sole responsibility of the individual’s well-being. In circumstances that point to geriatric suicide, it’s a good idea to connect with mental health care professionals. Depression and suicidal ideation are treatable with therapy and counseling. Family members, friends and caregivers can promote access to professional help by assisting their loved one in finding the right therapist, planning for financial considerations and attending appointments.
Resources and Interventions Aimed at Prevention
Older adults and families have access to several resources and interventions that address suicide in seniors, helping to improve older adults’ quality of life and reducing their risks of self-harm.
Suicide Prevention Programs for Older Adults
As the prevalence of suicide among seniors has gained public notice, there’s been an increase in access to national and local initiatives. Useful resources include:
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 for those facing mental health struggles and emotional distress.
- Suicide Prevention Resource Center. This resource publishes information on suicide risks in seniors and has a list of resources related to reducing loneliness and increasing access to mental health care.
- Community-based interventions and outreach efforts. Many cities and counties have community-based programs to address mental health issues and suicide in seniors. Individuals can connect with their local programs by calling 2-1-1.
Counseling and Therapy Options
Counseling is effective in treating depression, grief and suicidal ideation, especially when it’s tailored to the needs and experiences of older adults. If in-person appointments aren’t feasible, virtual therapy can help with grief and other mental health issues.
Support Groups and Peer Support Networks
Social isolation and loneliness are among the main causes of suicide in older people, but getting support from peers can play a significant role in accessing emotional care. Peer support networks such as online communities, senior centers or even book clubs at the local library can combat loneliness and strengthen resilience.
Conclusion
Older adults have the highest rate of suicide across all age demographics, with 2022 data indicating a suicide frequency of about six incidents per 10,000 individuals aged 65 and over. While seniors experience a range of risk factors, such as social isolation, grief and declining health, there are steps their friends, family members and health care providers can take to improve their quality of life.
Accessible mental health care is necessary for everyone, regardless of their age. However, prioritizing mental health in aging populations is crucial in preventing suicides. If you or someone you know exhibits the signs of depression, social isolation or suicidal ideation, Restore Mental Health is here to provide compassionate care. Contact us today to learn more about our age-friendly programs.
