Depression and Suicidal Behavior in the Elderly: A Literature Review

Depression and suicide are significant health problems in the United States and Japan, and suicide is still considered primarily a phenomenon of adolescence to middle age. However, it is also a significant problem in the elderly (65 years old and above). The purpose of this report was to review the literature relative to the depression and suicide in the elderly in the United States and Japan. Several important factors involved with elderly suicide were different between the 2 countries. While Americans suffer from psychological problems, Japanese more likely suffer from physiological problems. Cultural and religious backgrounds play an important role in the decision to commit suicide.