SIGNS OF SUICIDE AMONG THE AGED
The elderly rarely communicate suicidal intentions and, unlike the young, usually act once they decide to kill themselves, according to Dr. Marv Miller, a gerontologist who has written about late-life suicide.
Most aged people who end their own lives truly want to die, so any indication that an elderly person is thinking about suicide should be acted upon immediately, Miller, of San Diego, says. Some of the “red flags” that a doctor, relative or friend might recognize:
* Expressions of feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness.
* Statements such as: “My family is better off without me,” or “I want to end it all.”
* Loss of a spouse, a diagnosis of fatal illness or a recent move.
* Neglect of the person, including failure to take prescribed medication.
* Sudden attention to putting personal affairs in order, giving away money and possessions or making changes in wills.
* Sudden interest or lack of interest in religion.
* Scheduling an appointment with a doctor without having an obvious physical complaint.
* Unusual behavior such as buying a gun or stockpiling medication.
* Mood or behavior changes, including hostility, withdrawal and severe depression.
Source: Associated Press
Start your day right
Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.
You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.
