Lisa Van Hove, Beau M Nieuwenhuijs, Steven Vanderstichelen, Nico De Witte, Ellen Gorus, Lara Stas, Imke Baetens
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Objectives: A biopsychosocial model of self-harm risk factors in older adults was explored, distinguishing between direct and indirect self-harm.
Methods: A cross-sectional, matched pair sample was drawn from a community-dwelling sample of 625 adults aged 60 years and over, including 44 participants with and 44 without self-harm. Mean age was 68.7 years (age range = 60-91). Data were gathered using a survey composed of validated instruments and additional self-developed items.
Results: From our total sample, 8.2% had engaged in self-harm at age 60 and over. Indirect methods (e.g. substance misuse, not eating) were most common. The presence of a mental disorder, emotional loneliness, cognitive and physical frailty, and a lack of resilience were identified as potential risk factors. Those who have engaged in direct or both types of self-harm exhibit higher levels of these factors. A stepwise regression model showed that only emotional loneliness and mental disorder(s) were significantly associated with self-harm in old age.
Conclusions: Investigating self-harm (subtypes) among community-dwelling older adults is vital, especially in those with a mental disorder and emotional loneliness.
Clinical implications: Clinicians should be vigilant for self-harm in older adults, particularly for indirect methods and among those with a mental disorder and who experience emotional loneliness.
期刊介绍:
Clinical Gerontologist presents original research, reviews, and clinical comments relevant to the needs of behavioral health professionals and all practitioners who work with older adults. Published in cooperation with Psychologists in Long Term Care, the journal is designed for psychologists, physicians, nurses, social workers, counselors (family, pastoral, and vocational), and other health professionals who address behavioral health concerns found in later life, including:
-adjustments to changing roles-
issues related to diversity and aging-
family caregiving-
spirituality-
cognitive and psychosocial assessment-
depression, anxiety, and PTSD-
Alzheimer’s disease and other neurocognitive disorders-
long term care-
behavioral medicine in aging-
rehabilitation and education for older adults.
Each issue provides insightful articles on current topics. Submissions are peer reviewed by content experts and selected for both scholarship and relevance to the practitioner to ensure that the articles are among the best in the field. Authors report original research and conceptual reviews. A unique column in Clinical Gerontologist is “Clinical Comments." This section features brief observations and specific suggestions from practitioners which avoid elaborate research designs or long reference lists. This section is a unique opportunity for you to learn about the valuable clinical work of your peers in a short, concise format.