Detecting Suicidal Ideation in Older Patients: Identifying Risk Factors Within the General Practice Setting

This study sought to determine the prevalence of psychological distress & suicidal ideation among patients aged 60 years & older presenting to general practitioners, & the relationship between these variables in detecting patients who may be contemplating suicide. 1061 consecutive patients attending 1 of 54 randomly selected practices in Western Australia between 2002-2003 were included. Although only 5.1% of patients presented with psychological complaints, 5.8% acknowledged current suicidal ideation. Ideation was associated with CES-D scores greater than 16, feelings of depression, & previous suicide attempt. (23 refs.)