Primary Article

Suicide in the Elderly: A Two-Year Study of Data From Death Certificates

Authors: DAVID A. CASEY, MD

Abstract

Data from death certificates in Kentucky in 1987 and 1988 for persons 65 years old and older were analyzed. There were 205 suicides in the 2-year study period. Suicide rates were higher for the elderly than for any other population group. White men, the group at highest risk, committed approximately 80% of the suicides in the elderly group. Suicide among minorities was rare. Self-inflicted gunshot wounds accounted for 88% of the suicides in the elderly group. Despite their high risk of suicide, elderly white men are underrepresented in terms of psychiatric admissions.

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References