(b)
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Suicide is a very complex problem. It is caused by a variety of reasons, including social, psychological, emotional and situational factors. Prolonged illness, death of a loved one, family troubles, frustrations, despair and hopelessness are often the reasons cited for suicide attempts by elderly persons. The suicidal act is usually the climax of a crisis in an individual. No single or simple explanation can cover the wide range of situations that lead to suicide.
The means by which suicide were committed among the total deaths of persons aged 65 and above in 1995 are as follows:
(Suicide and self-inflicted injury)
Total deaths by cause of death, 1995 (Aged 65+)
Cause
Male
Female
Total
Suicide and self-inflicted
3
9
12
poisoning by solid or liquid
substances
Suicide and self-inflicted
51
27
78
injury by hanging,
strangulation and suffocation
Suicide and self-inflicted injury
55
54
109
by jumping from high place
Others
Total
7
4
11
116
94
210
(c)
Suicide may be prevented if the elderly persons have a more positive outlook and better control of their life. When they are confronted with personal difficulties, it would be most important if their family members can render them with strong emotional support. To supplement family support, it is Government's policy to create strong community support network to help to address problems of loneliness and depression faced by some elderly people, especially those in crisis. Services being provided include the following: