The elderly,, over 55 years, account for 1/5 to 1/4 of all completed suicides. Rates differ between elderly males & females, among ethnic groups, between the conditions predisposing & the epidemiology of elderly & general populations. Clues to elderly suicide include depression, major irrevocable loss, social isolation, & suicide ideation. Prevention strategies occur with family & friends, physician, & social programs. (CM)