Senior Citizens

Depression and suicide affects every generation.

​

No generation is free from the risk of suicide. In fact, people over the age of 85 have a higher rate of suicide than any other group in the United States. Catching depression, and other mental illness, early on can massively reduce those numbers and bring hope for recovery.

​

Warning Signs

​

Warning signs of suicide and depression are different for seniors. Nostalgia, talking about death, and changes in lifestyle are all normal parts of aging-depression is not. Seniors tend to show depression or mental illness through irritation, isolation, and loss of purpose.

Chronic illness, chronic pain, a loss of independence, social disconnection, and the loss of long-term friends to death can all play a part in depression. 

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

A silent struggle for the silent generation

Stigma around mental illnesses can make it difficult for older generations to reach out for help. Historic forms of treatment and a lack of understanding lead to misconceptions and fears to admit mental illness or difficulty. Despite their high rate of suicide, seniors only make up 3% of suicide hotline calls. Today there are many ways to seek help. 

Preventing Senior Suicide

​

Stay connected: help prevent social isolation by staying in touch with family and neighbors. Join fitness classes and clubs to make friends and encourage physical activity outside of the house.

​

Take advantage of available programs: Every county in Idaho has a variety of public programs to help keep seniors mobile. These programs help seniors stay connected and maintain a sense of independence.

     Programs in Magic Valley:

• Fit and Fall Proof. Classes to build muscles that will help prevent falls. These classes are also a great way to build friendships. 

• Senior Services. A telephone, e-mail or ‘walk-in’ service which can help older persons, their family members, and caregivers find answers to their questions about programs and services available to them in their own communities.

• Senior Centers. There are four senior centers in Twin Falls alone, several more in surrounding areas.

• Support Groups. The CSI Office on Aging offers the following support groups for seniors and their families: Caregiver Support Group, Grandparents as Parents, and Widowed Support Groups. 

​

​

Reach out for help if you struggle with depression or suicidal thoughts: There are people who want to help if you will let them. If you are contemplating suicide or even need a little help reach out to loved ones, professionals, or hotlines like The Friendship Hotline or the 24 hour suicide hotline.

​

Above all else, remember that you are needed and there are people who want to help. Seniors are a community's greatest source of wisdom and experience. You are needed to help the upcoming generations thrive. Do not underestimate your impact or worth.