Madam, – The concerns expressed by the coroner for Kerry South, Terence Casey about suicide among older people (Home News, January 28th) are shared by Age Action. The complex combination of factors that results in a considerable number of older people taking their own lives needs to be addressed publicly.
For older people, the latter years of their lives can be very difficult.
Many are socially isolated — sometimes going five or six days at a time without meeting another human being. Others are overwhelmed with grief following the death of a spouse or loved one, while some (especially men) may never come to terms with retirement after 40 years or more of having a work-related purpose to their life.
Depression can also be an issue. If not addressed (especially when a person is isolated and does not have anybody to notice the symptoms and encourage them to seek help), the problem can snowball.
Possible warning signs of depression include low mood or sadness, social withdrawal, increased fatigue, loss of appetite, disturbed sleep, loss of enjoyment, and feelings of hopelessness. Help should be sought from a local GP or public health nurse.
But the response to suicide among older people must go beyond the medical profession. Communities have a major role to play. Groups such as Age Action can lobby politicians for more supports for older people, but they cannot ensure that older people have a value and a role in their communities.
Many older individuals tell us that although they have a lifetime of experience, they have no way of contributing to their communities, and feel that their contribution is not wanted. Others are isolated from community activities because they have no transport, or have physical disabilities.
Yet in some communities, older people play full, active roles. And these communities benefit as a result.
Mr Casey’s comments deserve further debate and consideration at community level. – Yours, etc,