Suicide Prevention for Older Adults in Residential Communities: Implications for Policy and Practice

Whether by choice or necessity, more older adults in America are now living in congregate residential settings. About 23 percent of the 36 million adults over age 65 experience relocation. The underlying reasons for relocation as well as the ensuing adjustment process is often stressful. These adjustments coupled with an array of risk factors commonly found among seniors – depression, hopelessness, & functional impairment – can result in suicidal behaviours. The authors summarize what is known about suicide risk & suggest opportunities for suicide prevention in senior living communities. (31 refs.) JA