Predictors of Suicidal Ideation in Community-dwelling Older Men: A Comparison between Young-old and Old-old

Purpose: This study was done to examine the prevalence of suicidal ideation and predictors of suicidal ideation in community-dwelling older men, comparing young-old (65 to 74) and old-old (75 and over). Methods: The 2014 National Elderly Survey was used with a sample of 2,790 elderly men. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify the predictive factors for suicidal ideation in elderly men. Results: The proportions of participants with suicidal ideation were significantly different between young-old and old-old men (x2=4.46, p=.035). The multivariable logistic regression analyses revealed that being a recipient of basic livelihood security, experiencing discrimination, conflicting with children, and being depressed were significantly associated with suicidal ideation in young-old men. In old-old men, living arrangements, conflicting with children, and being depressed were significantly associated with suicidal ideation. Conclusion: Results indicate that the development of suicide prevention programs requires different approaches young-old and old-old men