Citation

Wallace M, Miller VJ, Fields NL, Xu L, Mercado-Sierra MA. J. Gerontol. Soc. Work 2021; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2021, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/01634372.2021.1907495

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Mental health in later life and suicide risk among older adults are important topics for social work. There is evidence-based research to support the use selective and indicated strategies for suicide prevention, yet, universal prevention approaches are also needed. However, the extent to which the broader contexts of suicide have been examined remains largely absent from the literature. This article presents findings from a systematic review of articles published between 2009 and 2021, focusing what types of empirically evaluated suicide prevention programs effectively prevent and reduce suicidality in older adults. Using the PICO and PRISMA guidelines, a final sample of 8 articles were reviewed in this systematic review. The articles were categorized into three types of programs: 1) primary and home health care, 2) community-based outreach, and 3) counseling. The articles also examined the involvement of social workers in these programs. Following a description of the articles, the authors assess each study using the GRADE rating system. Lastly, the authors discuss the role of the social worker in mental health promotion and prevention strategies.

Language: en

Keywords

Suicide; systematic review; mental illness; international research