Which demographic has the greatest risk of suicide?

• A. White Females > 80
• B. Hispanic Males 20-40
• C. White Males > 80
• D. African American Males < 30

Answer: (C)

Older White men over 80 have the highest suicide risk. This reflects epidemiological data showing that, among age groups, non-Hispanic White men in the oldest ages have the highest suicide rate. Men overall complete suicide more often than women, and in advanced age that tendency is even more pronounced due to a combination of risk factors. These include social isolation, the impact of chronic illness and pain, functional decline, bereavement, and depression that may go unrecognized or untreated. Access to highly lethal means, such as firearms, also contributes to the higher fatality rate in this group. While suicide risk exists in other groups listed, none reach the level observed in older White men, making that demographic the most at risk.