Social Isolation and Suicidal Risk Among Elderly Psychiatric Outpatients
Abstract
Introduction Social isolation and feelings of loneliness are recognized as major contributors to suicidal behavior among the elderly. Objectives We aimed to explore the relationship between perceived loneliness and suicidal risk in older adults followed in outpatient psychiatry. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients aged 65 years and older attending psychiatric consultations. Data collection included self-reported measures of loneliness, the 3-point Loneliness Scale and social isolation assessed through the Social Isolation Scale, which comprises a Social Link Index (ILS) quantifying social connections and a Close Relationship Index (IRE) evaluating the qualitative dimension of interpersonal bonds. Suicidal history and characteristics were explored in detail and complemented by the Ducher Suicide Risk Scale. Results Seventy-three patients were included (male/female ratio = 1.08). A high prevalence of loneliness was observed, with 72% of participants reporting feeling lonely “often” or “sometimes.” More than half (51%) stated they had felt lonely during most of the past week, and 58% reported intensified loneliness during specific periods of the year, particularly in the evening (44%) and during summer holidays (23%). The median score on the 3-point Loneliness Scale was 5 (IQR = 3–7). Regarding social isolation, 33% of participants were classified as socially isolated according to the ILS, while only 34% reported having close relationships (IRE).…
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Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause.
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