Neglect and isolation cause rising suicide rates among elderly in Fiji - Kiran

Neglect is one of the primary causes of suicide and attempted suicide, with many elderly people living alone and facing health issues.

This was highlighted by the Assistant Minister for Women, Children,and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran on fijivillage Straight Talk With Vijay Narayan when asked about the reasons behind the increasing suicide cases among senior citizens.

Kiran says lack of family support also leads to feelings of depression.

The Assistant Minister says they have had some conversations with counseling agencies working with the Ministry, and they have revealed that anxiety and health conditions are also contributing factors.

She says there is a need for more to be done, stressing the importance of teaching children kindness and compassion.

Kiran also highlighted that with people seeking better opportunities and moving to cities or abroad, older generations are often left behind.

Kiran adds in Fiji, families moving overseas can afford aged care for their elderly relatives, but the breakdown of social structures needs to be addressed.

20 people aged 60 years and above have committed suicide between January to October this year while 3 people in the age group have attempted to commit suicide.