High Number Of Elderly Suicides Reported

Local suicide-prevention group, Samaritan Befrienders Hong Kong, on Saturday reported 438 suicides among people aged 60 or more in the past year, the highest number recorded since 1973.

Clarence Tsang, the group’s executive director, said the coronavirus pandemic has left many senior citizens isolated.

"People of Hong Kong and of course the elderly people, they do not have a lot of chances to meet with others, to meet with family members,” he said.

“The elderly homes are all closed for visits. They won't be able to see their sons and daughters...their grandchildren. That kind of loneliness is really tremendous."

Tsang suggested that networks between relatively younger senior citizens and those who are older, especially those who are over 80, can be set up to help improve the situation.

“This can, on one hand give support to very old people – they can feel the warmth and love from the community – and on the other hand, help the (relatively younger seniors) find their role…and still contribute to the community."

Other reasons leading to suicide among the elderly include the loss of a spouse and experiencing an identity crisis, according to the group.