Suicide among the elderly: levels and trends.

ABSTRACT

Despite the publicity attending increased rates of suicide for the young, U.S. suicide rates continue to be highest in old age. Suicide thus represents a major mental health problem for a still-neglected age group. National levels and trends of suicide among the aged are presented by sex and race for 1933-1978. Explanations of these trends are considered, and information is provided on recognition and prevention of geriatric suicide.