A Comparison of Suicidal and Nonsuicidal Elders Referred to a Community Mental Health Center Program

Sociodemographics, clinical characteristics, & life stressors of community-dwelling suicidal risk & non-suicidal risk elders referred to a community aging & mental health provider were compared in this study. Results indicated that suicidal elders were younger, more likely to be separated or divorced, & had a past history of suicidal behaviour. Also, living alone, depression or anxiety disorder, & emotional disturbance predicted suicidal risk status.