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Neurobiology and medico-legal aspects of suicides among older adults: a narrative review

Authors :
Francesco Sessa
Rita Polito
Giuseppe Li Rosi
Monica Salerno
Massimiliano Esposito
Daniela Pisanelli
Federica Ministeri
Antonietta Messina
Marco Carotenuto
Sergio Chieffi
Giovanni Messina
Marcellino Monda
Source :
Frontiers in Psychiatry, Vol 15 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
Frontiers Media S.A., 2024.

Abstract

The task of preventing suicide in older adults is an important social burden as older adults aged above 65 are exposed to singular psychological aspects that increase suicide risks. Moreover, when an older adult corpse is found, the medico-legal inspection represents a fundamental tool to identify the exact cause of death, classifying or excluding it as suicide. In this scenario, this review aims to explore the neurobiological factors that could be related to suicidal behavior in older adults. A further goal of this review is the exploration of the medico-legal aspects surrounding older adult suicides, clarifying the importance of forensic investigation. Particularly, this review examines issues such as neurotransmitter imbalances, cognitive impairment, neuroinflammation, psychosocial factors related to geriatric suicide, and neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, medico-legal aspects such as policy considerations, legal frameworks, mental health assessments, ethical implications and forensic investigation were explored. Considering the importance of this phenomenon, especially in western countries, a need has emerged for focused screening tools on suicidal behavior among older adults, in order to contain it. Therefore, this review makes an exhaustive appraisal of the literature giving insights into the delicate interplay between neurobiology as well as mental health in relation to older adult suicide within a medico-legal context. The comprehension of different aspects about this complex phenomenon is fundamental to propose new and more effective interventions, supporting tailored initiatives such as family support and improving healthcare, specifically towards vulnerable ageing societies to reduce older adult suicide risks.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
16640640
Volume :
15
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Frontiers in Psychiatry
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.0cf60918029440b18d7308af07af38d1
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1449526