Suicidal Thoughts of Korean Older Adults

• In Event: 20820 - Section on Medical Sociology Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (90 minute): Table 8. The Life Course and Health I

Abstract

South Korea has one of the highest suicide rates among OECD countries, with older adults experiencing a disproportionately high risk. This study investigates the factors contributing to suicidal ideation among elderly Koreans, emphasizing economic instability, social isolation, and mental health conditions as key determinants. Using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES) spanning 2007–2017, logistic regression models analyze the role of human capital, family structure, and health status in predicting suicidal thoughts. Results indicate that lower income, disrupted marital status (e.g., divorce, widowhood), and poor self-rated health are significantly associated with suicidal ideation. Depression, particularly when left untreated, emerges as a critical predictor. Notably, men are more likely to complete suicide, while women report higher rates of suicidal ideation. The study also highlights the impact of economic insecurity, as the elderly face limited employment opportunities and inadequate social welfare. Social support, including family integration and community involvement, serves as a protective factor. These results underscore the urgency of policy interventions that enhance mental health services, strengthen economic safety nets, and promote social inclusion for older adults. Given the rapid aging of South Korea’s population, addressing elderly suicide requires a multidimensional approach that considers both structural and individual-level risk factors. This research contributes to sociological discussions on aging, social determinants of health, and mental health disparities. It aligns with Durkheimian perspectives on suicide, emphasizing the role of social integration in mitigating self-harm risks. Future studies should explore longitudinal data to establish causal relationships and assess the effectiveness of targeted interventions.

Author

• Jaein Lee, Arkansas State University-Main Campus