NCJ Number
199993
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 72 Issue: 4 Dated: April 2003 Pages: 26-32
Date Published
April 2003
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article describes problems older persons face that put them at risk for suicide and other situations that require law enforcement intervention.
Abstract
As the longevity of the American population increases, many diseases and disorders put elderly people at risk. Rate of depression, alcohol and drug abuse, and suicide all increase as a person gets older. As such, law enforcement officers should be familiar with the unique problems associated with the aging process in order to resolve risky situations involving older persons. The article offers a case study of a 77-year-old man who first took his wife hostage with a gun, and then threatened to commit suicide. By actively listening to his old war stories, the police dispatcher was able to diffuse the situation. The author presents crisis negotiation strategies that should be employed when dealing with older persons, including actively listening to the complaints and stories of older persons and encouraging them to talk about their fears of death. Internet resources are offered for further information on the effects of aging and on how to prevent suicide.