FOR MANY OF US, when we think of suicide, we picture the tragedy of young lives cut short by overwhelming depression, or the unfathomable demise of a highly successful celebrity. While these stories are undeniably heartbreaking, there is an often-overlooked segment of our society that is actually at greater risk of suicide – the elderly.
According to the American Association of Suicidality, as of 2018, older adults comprised 16 percent of our population but accounted for 18.8 percent of the suicides. The National Council on Aging says individuals over the age of 85 have the highest suicide rate of any age group. A suicide occurs among the elderly at a rate of approximately once per hour in the U.S. This is cause for concern not just among healthcare providers, but also for the families and friends of those who feel that this course of action is their only option.
There are many factors that can lead an older person to take their life. Psychiatric issues, neurocognitive disorders, or cognitive impairment may play a role. Depression can manifest differently in the elderly than in younger patients, so it may go unrecognized by those close to them. Physical problems, such as pain, illness, or lack of mobility, can contribute to depression and suicidal ideation. Social isolation, grief, or feeling a lack of purpose in life can be major triggers for self-harming behaviors.
Denne historien er fra November 2020-utgaven av Central Florida Doctor.
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Denne historien er fra November 2020-utgaven av Central Florida Doctor.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
ON THE PULSE
Healthcare professionals across the area finish 2020 on a strong note with accomplishments and awards
RESOLUTIONS OF RESILIENCE
Seven Habits for Healthcare Workers On the Edge of Burnout
Glaucoma and Dry Eyes
Eye doctors are excited this year with 2021 rolling in. It’s an excellent opportunity for us to shine some light on eye care topics that we would like to highlight. January is Glaucoma Awareness Month.
CARE AFTER CRISIS
Watson Clinic’s Dr. Kathleen Haggerty Opens Post-COVID Care Clinic
A NEW ANGLE FOR HEALTHCARE CAREERS
Florida Polytechnic University Offers New Health Systems Engineering Program
Basics for Patient Experience and Retention
It’s easy to understand how the focus on improving patient experiences and shoring up retention efforts may have fallen by the wayside this year. We all know that medical practices are stretched thin as staff members work to accommodate social distancing measures and other COVID concerns.
Protecting Our Elderly
Psychologist Explains Dynamic of Suicide Among Seniors and Lists Precautions Doctors and Family Can Take
The Cutting Edge
Dr. Haq Brings His Expertise in Robotic Cardiothoracic Surgery to Bostick Heart Center
On the pulse
Our Healthcare Specialists Are Working Harder Than Ever! Don’t Miss Out on All the Exciting Awards and Recognition
The $uccess Formula
For Medical Practices, Lease Negotiations Go Beyond Location