Aspects of suicidal behavior in the elderly through psychosocial autopsies: an integrative review

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the psychosocial aspects associated with suicidal behavior in the elderly, based on research that used psychosocial autopsies as a research strategy. This is an integrative review carried out in the BVS, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases, covering articles in Portuguese, English and Spanish, carried out in April 2024, in accordance with the recommendations of the PRISMA flowchart. Eight articles were selected, which revealed four main thematic axes: “Social isolation and loneliness”; “Depression and other mental disorders”; “Loss of social roles and identity”; and “Chronic diseases and chronic pain”. Feelings of hopelessness, uselessness and helplessness were also highlighted, in addition to the fragility of support networks, the lack of emotional support and life events that compromise autonomy. Data from psychosocial autopsies provided a detailed understanding of the psychosocial impact and individual experiences of older adults, highlighting the urgency of preventive interventions that consider the complexity of the physical and emotional health conditions of this population.