Analysis of Professionals' Perceptions of Suicide in Older Adults Living in Care Homes

Abstract

Introduction

Suicide among older adults living in care homes is a major public health challenge. This study analyses the perceptions and attitudes of professionals working in care homes towards suicidal ideation and suicide attempts in this population.

Method

A total of 338 nursing home professionals from Spain participated in the study. A vignette-based methodology was used, in which cases of suicidal ideation or suicide attempts were described, varying the gender of the actor. Responses to a questionnaire assessed perceived frequency, attention-seeking behaviour, ageism, experienced anxiety, perceived risk and likelihood of future suicide.

Results

Professionals perceived suicidal ideation to be more common and normative in older adults, particularly women. However, they attributed a higher risk and likelihood of suicide to cases involving suicide attempts, which also elicited more anxiety. No significant differences were found in the perception of these situations as ‘attention-seeking behaviour'.

Discussion

Acceptance of suicidal ideation as normal behaviour of suicidal ideation in older adults may reduce the perceived urgency to intervene, highlighting the need for specialised training to help identify risk signals and act promptly. This study highlights the importance of addressing age and gender bias in suicide prevention in care homes and advocates the development of evidence-based strategies.