Elderly Depression and Suicide

Paper Summary:

The paper explains that the elderly have much to offer the younger population and this can give them a strong sense of purpose. However, the paper shows how, for too many of these individuals, this is not the case and they end up feeling alone and depressed, which eventually leads to suicide. The paper examines major depressive disorder, dysthymic disorder and bipolar disorder. The paper provides a literature review that deals with the treatment for depression and the risk of suicide in the elderly population. The paper also discusses methods of suicide prevention.

Outline:
Abstract
Summary
Introduction and Rationale
Previous Theory and Research
Strengths and Gaps in the Literature
Conclusion and Recommendations

From the Paper:

"Literature into the issue of depression and the suicide rate where elderly people are concerned is important for several reasons. Consider these facts: The highest rate of suicide in the United States is among the elderly population. Moreover, suicide rates steadily increase as age advances in individuals of all races and both genders. Those that are 65 years and older successfully complete suicide attempts 50% more often than the national average. Every 90 minutes a senior citizen in the United States commits suicide. Population experts estimate that by 2030, the elderly population will be about 20% of the population-about 75 million people (Heisel, 2004). Clearly, the problem of suicide among the elderly is significant and if left unaddressed can be expected to increase."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Brent, D.A., Holder, D., Kolko, D., Birmaher, B., Baugher, M., Roth, C., Iyengar, S., & Johnson, B.A. (1997). A clinical psychotherapy trial for depression in the elderly comparing cognitive, family, and supportive therapy. Archives of General Psychiatry, 54: 877-885.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2000, January 28). Suicide in the United States. Atlanta, GA: National Center for Injury Prevention and Control. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/ncipc/factsheets/suifacts.htm
• Clarke, G. N., Rohde, P., Lewinsohn, P. M., Hops, H., & Seeley, J. R. (1999). Cognitive-behavioral treatment of depression in adolescents: Efficacy of acute group treatment and booster sessions. Journal of the Academy of Adolescent Psychiatry, 38: 272-279.
• Gallo JJ, Rabins PV. (1999). Depression without sadness: Alternative presentations of depression in late life. American Family Physician; 60:820-6.
• Hagerty, B. M., & Williams, R. A. (1999). The effects of sense of belonging, social support, conflict, and loneliness on depression. Nursing Research, 48: 215-219.

More papers on Elderly Depression and Suicide:

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• Research Paper # 16139 : "Geriatric Suicide"

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