This study determined the psychological characteristics & nature of life problems in people 60 years & older dying by suicide in the absence of psychiatric disorder. Psychological autopsy interviews were conducted with relatives & friends of 23 people. 3 of the sample had significant psychiatric symptoms, one had a diagnosis of personality disorder, & ten had significantly abnormal personality traits. Physical illness & recent bereavement were the most common life problems associated with suicide. Five of the sample were suffering from severe physical illness at the time of death. (15 refs.)