A comparison is made between the male & female suicide rates for the young (15-24 years) & the old (over 65 years) in Ireland. The incidence of suicide continues to be higher among elderly females compared to younger but the rates for young & old males have recently converged. The suicides of 12 elderly persons were examined as part of an ongoing psychological autopsy study of Cork suicides. Information relating to their domestic, marital, & psychological situation is discussed. Given these findings & those on methods of suicide, the subject of suicide prevention in the elderly is discussed. (18 refs.)