The later years of a person’s life can be filled with loneliness (social isolation), psychological distress, dissatisfaction with life, uncontrollable pain and physical illness (and an unspoken fear of dying a prolonged death or a fear of being institutionalized), and a hopelessness to change their situation.

And there are those who suffer with untreated depression—sometimes hidden for fear of appearing weak or appearing to suffer from dementia.

Being tired, sometimes they just want to pull the covers over their heads and shut out the world.

Henry, unwilling to live in the house by himself after his sweetheart of 56 years passed away from cancer, sent cards to his friends and relatives, organized his will…then shot himself in the head.

…

Not long after 72-year-old Anne had retired on disability from her job as a librarian, she paid her bills, set out a freshly ironed outfit and taped a note to the front door:
“Don’t come in by yourself.
Sorry.
Anne.”
Anne overdosed on sleeping pills.

…

Wilfred, tired of battling his disability, went outside in minus 30 degree Celsius temperatures (-22 ºF), wheeled himself to the edge of the river concealed by trees in the park, took off his winter parka, toque and gloves, and threw his body into the snow. He froze to death very quickly.

Yes, even some elderly men and women take their life (the highest rates are among those who are widowed or divorced).

But suicide for the older person is not an impulsive act. They usually make sure the act will be successful.

In my next Blog I’ll share some ideas on how you can help someone if you think they are at risk for suicide.

Melanie Hack
Author of Who Killed My Sister, My friend
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