Suicide Among Older Adults

Every hour, a person over the age of 65 dies by suicide in the United States. Although they don’t attempt suicide as frequently as other age groups, a variety of factors contribute to the fact that they die by suicide more often: their intent may be higher, they may be more thorough planners, and they may be medically compromised in the first place.

Just like with other age groups, many older adults’ thoughts of suicide can be traced to other, treatable behavioral health concerns like depression. Depression is an illness like most others — with the support, symptoms can be addressed and reduced to a more manageable level.