The elderly are the highest risk population in the United States for suicide. But few suicide-prevention programs target them - a result, advocates say, of scarce funding and lack of concern for older Americans. A look at some signs of depression, a top risk factor for suicide.

Persistent sad, anxious or "empty" mood

Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism, guilt

Loss of interest in hobbies and other activities that were once enjoyed

Fatigue, restlessness, irritability

Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions

Insomnia or oversleeping

Significant weight change

Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders and chronic pain

Thoughts of death.

Other factors that put elderly people at risk for suicide include:

Previous suicide attempts or family history of suicide

Existing or past mental disorders

History of alcohol and substance abuse

Loss of personal, social or professional ties

Illness, isolation, access to lethal weapons


Source: The Centers for Disease Control and Preventon, The National Institute for Mental Health

Yes Ms. Alffe. I saw that as well at the Suicidology web site. That the highest suicide rates are among the elderly. Very sad.

It's a shame our society has such a lack of concern for the elderly. My grandmother lived with us until she died. I don't remember her, but it sounded like she held a very high position in the household.

When we visited my aunt (mom's sister) in Ohio, she had her MIL living with them. Her MIL was unable to walk or get out of her chair, but I used to love visiting them. "Grandma" always had a soft lap available to me, and I always knew where to find her. She'd sneak a dollar bill into my hand when my dad wasn't looking. She always seemed happy and laughed a lot - her whole body shook when she laughed.

All of my friends had either a healthy/active grandparent in their lives or a sick grandparent living with them. I used to be jealous of them because it appeared to be such an important relationship for a kid to have in a family - an important resource with experience who's most likely on your side. Even the old crabby ones served a purpose. They kept my friends humble and were entertaining to those of us who weren't related.

Even when they experienced the sadness of illness and death, it seemed like an important lesson in life. At least they were able to help care for their grandparents, and they had a lot of good memories to sustain them.

Nowadays, families are too disconnected. Parents rarely have enough time for their children, much less elderly/sick relatives.

I don't think the elderly would feel suicidal if they continued to feel needed and valued in this world.

That is so right on Kathy! Our children were so fortunate to have both sets of their grandparents right here in town with them. They got to have sleep overs, birthday parties...even went on vacation with them sometimes.

We don't have our grandchildren in town with us but try to take them on vacation with us....a little one on one quality time. It's a great joy for us.

They are too big now for my lap but will never outgrow my heart.

It is sad. So many are alone - I see it a lot as I live in a densely populated area - most everyone walks.

I really admire the ones I see out walking - some are very faithful to their routine.
Others are caught up in health traps - bound to their homes by poor mental or physical health. I see these people in their windows, looking out. I see their closed curtains and smell their musty hallways. Its sad when they can't make a choice to be out.

I live alone and I love it. Even when I was with my husband and the boys were at home - I always wanted to be alone.
I have my cats.
I have my friends.
I have my son Joel.
I have my depression.
As long as I am making the choice to get out, I'll be ok.
As long as I have friends to reach out to - and I do reach out - I'll be ok.
And besides, I'm NOT old and I'm gonna be the most awesome grandma!

Some older folks are tired of living. Its such a complex issue.
And yep, they need to feel needed.

xo