Suicide rates in most countries are higher among the elderly than among the population as a whole. Epidemiological data for the current levels & trends in suicide among the elderly are presented with a focus on U.S.A. figures. Age, sex, race, marital status, & methods of suicide as factors in suicide among the old are detailed, followed by a discussion of past trends & future predictions. Data & literature on parasuicide & survivors of elderly suicide are briefly noted. (49 refs.)