Older adults at highest risk for suicide, yet have fewest resources - Harvard Gazette

A recent study from researchers at McLean Hospital highlights the lack of online suicide prevention resources specifically aimed at older adults, despite their high suicide rates. Older adults aged 75 and above have the highest suicide rates among age groups, yet major national organizations do not adequately address their needs. The study reveals that while these organizations acknowledge the risk, resources are hard to locate and do not resonate with the unique healthcare needs of this demographic. This underscores the urgent requirement for tailored interventions in digital platforms to support older individuals.

"As clinicians and researchers in geriatric psychiatry, we frequently work with older adults who express suicidal thoughts."

"What we uncovered was an imbalance in who online suicide prevention efforts are targeted toward, and a great unmet need for older adults."

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