Passive suicidal ideation in older adults from 12 European countries

Abstract

Abstract Background Highest rates of suicide in older adults are a major public health hazard in many industrialized societies. The current study aims to provide an overview of demographic, psycho-social, and health-related risks for suicidal ideation among European older adults. Methods Study builds on secondary data analysis using data drawn from the Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) wave 7.0. A total sample of 33,719 older adults, aged 65+, were analyzed. Risk factors included socio-demographic variables, psychological distress, and health conditions. Descriptive statistics and ANOVA were used to provide information about prevalence and demographic correlates of passive suicidal ideation. Standardized significant path coefficients were examined between predicting variables and suicidal ideation. Results Suicide ideation was at its highest level among older adults from France, Poland, Spain, Germany, Italy, and Belgium. Highest rates of suicidal ideation were found among widowed, but also married couples, aged between 65 and 70, and older adults living in rural area. Results also reinforced that elderly's suicidal ideation was universally associated with poor health, limited access to activities, a lack of social contact, and worse subjective well-being. The path from depression to suicidal ideation was significant with a larger magnitude. Conclusions Passive suicidal ideation is a critical mental health index. In order to diminish the likelihood of suicide thoughts and acts in older adults, national policy should integrate psychological services in elderly care to help older adults better cope with depressive symptoms and long-term health problems. Local government should foster local support groups for elderly and promote suicide prevention-intervention program for those elderly seeking help.