Psychogeriatric experts' experiences with risk factors of non-suicidal and suicidal self-injury in older adults: A qualitative study.

Abstract

While research has highlighted potential age-related differences in risk factors for non-suicidal and suicidal self-injury ((N)SSI), studies on such distinct risk factors among older adults are scarce. The present study addresses this gap by gaining insights into the experiences of psychogeriatric experts who work with older adults who engage in (N)SSI. In total, nine experts were interviewed about factors associated with (N)SSI in older adults. The responses were thematically analyzed using the biopsychosocial framework. We located a range of biological, psychological, and social factors contributing to (N)SSI, which largely align with previous findings regardless of age. Nonetheless, according to the experts cognitive and physical decline, advancing age, various experiences of loss, and social isolation were observed as particularly significant risk factors for older adults. These results emphasize the need for tailored preventive measures, interventions, and screening tools to address the unique challenges faced by older adults at risk of (N)SSI. Additionally, future research should investigate (N)SSI experiences in older age with a more diverse sample, including mapping the perspective of older adults themselves, healthcare providers, and other informants, to enhance our comprehension of this phenomenon among older adults.