There is a common perception that suicide rates are highest among adolescents. However, statistics show that elderly people, especially males, have rates that are higher than those among teens and among the population as a whole. The social isolation of many elders leaves less opportunity for rescue.
Elderly people tend to use more lethal methods and they often have stronger suicidal intent.
Causes of death may be less rigorously investigated in older persons. Many people, including some health care professionals, argue that suicidal ideation and behaviours in the elderly cannot be treated. The elderly lack the necessary energy for intervention. Old people are near death and thus do not need attention. The suicides of old people are rational, philosophical decisions.