A Public Health Concern: Suicide Rates Remain Highest Among Older People

The statistics on suicide by older people are clear. What do we know about this public health crisis?

Suicide rates are increasing across all ages groups and is now the tenth leading cause of death in all age groups at nearly 45,000 per year. White 65+ men have the highest completion rates of suicide, most often through the use of a firearm, while large portions of older people also kill themselves by suffocation or overdose. And the rates of suicide increases exponentially with age.

It is a common misconception to think that talking about suicide will increase its occurrence—and the longevity market can help raise awareness of this public health crisis. We have clear statistics that shows this is a real public health issue, so what can we do to change them?

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