Suicide Prevention in Older Adults Matters More Than You Think
When people talk about suicide prevention, they often think of teens or young adults. But suicide prevention in older adults is just as important (and too often overlooked).
Older adults face unique challenges, from isolation and chronic illness to grief and untreated mental health conditions. Yet mental well-being is just as essential later in life as it is at any other age. Suicide is preventable, and with the right support, older adults can live with dignity, purpose, and connection.
Why Suicide Prevention in Older Adults Is Critical
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults 85+ have the highest suicide rate of any age group in the U.S., and men over 75 are at the greatest risk. Depression affects about 6 million Americans age 65 and older, but only 10% receive treatment (National Alliance on Mental Illness).
Key risk factors for mental health challenges in older adults include:
- Social isolation and loneliness – Losing a spouse, family member, or close friend can lead to deep feelings of loneliness. Many older adults live alone, making it harder to stay socially connected.
- Chronic illness and pain – Health issues like heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, and ongoing pain can impact mood and quality of life.
- Mental health conditions – Depression and anxiety are not a normal part of aging, but they’re often missed or untreated in older adults. Stigma can keep people from seeking help.
- Loss of independence – Needing help with daily tasks, experiencing cognitive changes, or facing financial struggles can lead to feelings of hopelessness.
- Barriers to care – Some older adults don’t get treatment because of cost, lack of transportation, or limited availability of providers who accept Medicare. Many clinics have only a few “Medicare spots” open on their panels, making it harder to get timely care.
Related: Recognizing When Stress and Anxiety Are More Than Just a Rough Patch
Warning Signs of Suicide Risk in Seniors
Suicidal thoughts aren’t always obvious. Look for:
- Talking about hopelessness, feeling like a burden, or having no reason to live
- Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Increased use of alcohol or other substances
- Giving away belongings or talking about death more often
If you see these signs in an older adult, don’t ignore them. Talking openly and connecting them with help can save a life.
How to Support Mental Health in Older Adults
Start the conversation
Break the stigma by asking open-ended questions like:
- “How have you been feeling emotionally?”
- “Can you tell me about the quality of your relationships?”
Encourage connection
Help them stay in touch with friends and family through calls, visits, or video chats. Suggest hobbies, volunteering, or community groups that bring purpose. At NHC, our Community Health Navigators can also help connect older adults with local resources for social support.
Connect them to care
At NHC, our Behavioral Health team works alongside medical providers to support older adults’ mental health. We offer:
- Mental health screenings during primary care visits
- Skill-building sessions
- Support for depression, anxiety, grief, and life changes
- Referrals to long-term or specialized care when needed
Medicare and Behavioral Health Services for Seniors
If you have Medicare, mental health care is covered, and that includes more than many people realize. Benefits include:
- Annual depression screenings
- Individual or group therapy (coverage is often limited to one, not both)
- Family counseling, if it supports your treatment
- Medication management
- Services from psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers, and other qualified providers
Medicare Part B covers most outpatient mental health services, and Medicare Advantage plans may offer extra benefits. If you’re unsure about your coverage, NHC can help you understand your plan and connect you to care.
Learn more: Medicare Mental Health Benefits
The Bottom Line on Preventing Suicide in Older Adults
Mental health challenges don’t disappear with age. By recognizing the signs, reducing stigma, and making mental health services accessible, we can prevent suicide and help older adults live with connection, dignity, and hope.
Sources:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Suicide Data and Statistics: https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/suicide-data-statistics.html
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – Depression in Older Adults: https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Individuals-with-Mental-Illness/Older-Adults
- National Institute on Aging – Loneliness and Social Isolation: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/loneliness-and-social-isolation-tips-staying-connected
- Oregon Health Authority – Aging and Mental Health Services: https://www.oregon.gov/oha/hsd/amh/pages/index.aspx
- Medicare – Outpatient Mental Health Care: https://www.medicare.gov/coverage/mental-health-care-outpatient
Robert Kelly, Behavioral Health Consultant at NHC Milwaukie Medical Clinic
This article was reviewed by Robert Kelly, LPC, CADC I, Behavioral Health Consultant at Neighborhood Health Center. Robert provides counseling and care coordination at NHC Milwaukie Medical Clinic, where he partners with patients to develop treatment plans and support their health goals. With over five years of experience in outpatient care, he specializes in simplifying complex behavioral health needs and helping patients build practical steps toward well-being.