Older people are disproportionately likely to die by suicide. The highest percentages of those in the elderly category that commit suicide are those over 85 years old. I know a man who is nearing 90 years old and who lives a vibrant and active life. He runs a business, stays physically fit and lives life to the fullest. He has had some health issues throughout the years but has handled and controlled them well.
A few years ago, he was diagnosed with age related macular degeneration (AMD) which is the most common cause of blindness in the elderly. Until recently, the illness has not caused significant problems with his vision. The disease is starting to significantly decrease his vision and it appears blindness may be looming for him. Couple this with the hearing loss and other aches and pains that go along with age and this man is considering suicide. He feels life has nothing good for him anymore. In addition, he does not want to be a burden to anyone.
This case is not an isolated one. Similar cases occur daily. Is suicide a viable option in this case? In my view, suicide is not an option for problem solving. The man who feels life has nothing good for him anymore is mistaken. Life as he knew it may change drastically; however, that change can be positive and even exciting.
As an example, I know another elderly man who is in his mid eighties, is hard of hearing, and is legally blind from (AMD). He also was active all his life and had a zest and passion for life that was contagious. When AMD started taking his vision, he became frustrated and depressed but not for long. He did everything he could to make the best with his lot in life. His wife helped him with tasks he had trouble doing himself. She got him interested in books on tape or compact disc. He reads, or in his case listens to books he never would have experienced if he had his vision. He enthusiastically tells me about some of the adventures he experiences through listening to the books. Sure, he is frustrated that he cannot do many of the things he used to do like driving, but he still has a zest for life. He believes God has a timetable for him and he is going to make the best of it.
The similarities between these two are that they both were active, had a zest for life and both have devastating effects from macular degeneration. What is the difference between the two? Why do they have such different views about their present lives? The major difference is that the latter is married and the former is a widower. That support makes a big difference. Other factors, such as general personality traits and upbringing more than likely play a factor in their different attitudes as well.
What should be done with the man who is considering killing himself? Some will say he has lived enough of a life; after all, he has lived well beyond the average life span for men. Some say leave him alone and let him do whatever he wants.
I say where there is life there is hope. Life can bring about surprisingly positive experiences into peoples lives during the darkest of times. My view is to help this man or others like him who may be considering suicide. I say do our best to help them see the positives that may yet exist no matter how old they may be. Helping them to live abundantly is part of being a human being and being part of the extended family called the human race.
*Here are some tips on how to help with elderly citizens who may be suicidal.
http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/FY101
