Eun Kyung Kim
Department of Nursing, Suwon Science College, Hwaseong, Korea
Background: This study aimed to compare the prevalence and risk factors of suicidal ideation by age groups
among the elderly in Korea.
Methods: This cross-sectional study used Fifth Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (V-3,
2012). The participants were divided into two age groups: the young-old (n=1,016, 65-74 years), old-old
(n=579, 75 years or greater) groups. Multiple logistic regression was used for data analysis.
Results: The prevalence of suicidal ideation was 19.6% of young-old and 22.7% of old-old, respectively. There
was no difference on prevalence of suicidal ideation by age groups. Risk factors of suicidal ideation differ by
age groups. In the young-old group, higher suicidal ideation showed significant correlation with a higher level of
depression, perceived stress and a lower level of education, self-rated health. In the old-old group, higher suicidal
ideation showed significant correlation with a higher level of depression, perceived stress, restriction of activity,
and pain/discomfort.
Conclusions: Age group-specific nursing strategies may be required for prevention of suicidal ideation in elderly.
Korean J Health Promot 2015;15(2):54-62
Keywords: Aged, Suicidal ideation, Risk factors |