J Korean Geriatr Psychiatry.  2017 Oct;21(2):92-98. 10.0000/jkgp.2017.21.2.92.

Prevalence of Suicidal Ideation and Associated Factors among Community-Dwelling Korean Elderly

• Noh G
• Kim JL
• Chee IS
• Lee SW
• Lee M
• Kim HJ
• Ahn SH

• KMID: 2395662
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.0000/jkgp.2017.21.2.92

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between suicidal ideation and its associated clinical factors among community-dwelling elderly in Korea.
METHODS
A cross-sectional survey was conducted using the data obtained from the face to face interviews of 1,500 (mean age : 74.41±6.44, male : 41.0%) elderly people aged 65 or above living in the community. The questionnaire used in this study was composed of detailed questions about the clinical characteristics including sociodemographic, life style, physical status, and psychiatric factors. In order to assess the suicidal ideation, the subjects were asked questions about the suicidal idea in the past year.
RESULTS
A total of 156 (10.4%) elderly reported the suicidal ideation over the last year. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed significant correlation with dissatisfaction with life [odds ratio (OR) 4.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.55-12.60], depression (OR 2.87, 95% CI 1.62-5.07), cognitive decline (OR 2.38, 95% CI 1.38-4.10), poor perception of health (OR 2.34, 95% CI 1.04-5.24), and insomnia (OR 2.24, 95% CI 1.31-3.84).
CONCLUSION
These results showed the several clinical factors associated with suicidal ideation among community-dwelling elderly living in Korea. The present study suggested the necessity for the various aspects of approach.

Keyword

Suicidal ideation; Aged; Korea; Geriatric psychiatry; Factor

MeSH Terms

Aged*
Cross-Sectional Studies
Depression
Geriatric Psychiatry
Humans
Korea
Life Style
Logistic Models
Male
Prevalence*
Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders
Suicidal Ideation*