Substance abuse treatment is also a very important component if alcohol or other drugs are a problem. Adults must receive support in negotiating their current and future life stages, and clear up any developmental concerns which may impair progress. Resolving financial and employment concerns, and marital difficulties through respective counseling can aid in preventing adult suicides. Elderly Suicide rates by age are the highest among the elderly aged 65-99. The elderly often do not have specific social or job roles which provide support, a sense of usefulness, and promote well-being.
Elderly widowers comprise a very high risk group, more so than their female spouses.
This is attributed to both greater social isolation among widowers, and the loss of emotional and social support provided by their wives. Maintaining close family ties with available relatives, involvement in community groups such as volunteer organizations, and access to good medical and mental health care provide substantial protection from suicide by the elderly. On a societal level, the elimination of negative attitudes toward the elderly and the glorification of youth, particularly in the media, would help the elderly maintain their dignity as well as their health. Particularly in the United States, where the demographics indicate a large aging and elderly population, the promotion of the elderly as useful and viable citizens is very important. The most common signals of suicide are sometimes very obvious but often overlooked.