Year: 2000 Source: International Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, v.15, no.2, (February 2000), p.162-169 SIEC No: 20010451

This prospective study measured the prevalence, correlates, & longitudinal stability of suicidal ideation in acutely medically ill elderly patients. The prevalence of suicidal ideation on the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation & the Brief Assessment Schedule items of pessimism, life not worth living, & a wish to die were 36%, 60%, 33%, & 22% respectively. These 4 variables were significantly inter-correlated. Further studies examining the longitudinal stability of suicidal ideation coupled with intervention studies to reduce suicidal ideation are required. (38 refs.)