BETWEEN AGING AND VULNERABILITY: BIOPSYCHOSOCIAL DETERMINANTS ASSOCIATED WITH SUICIDE IN THE ELDERLY IN BRAZIL

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze the main biopsychosocial determinants associated with suicide among the elderly in Brazil, considering population aging and the impacts of this problem on public health. To this end, an integrative literature review was conducted, using a qualitative approach, utilizing scientific articles and official documents published between 2015 and 2025, selected from the PubMed, SciELO, and Google Scholar databases. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 44 studies comprised the final sample, with the data organized and analyzed by thematic axes. The results demonstrated that suicide among the elderly has a multifactorial character, being related to the interaction between biological, psychological, and social factors. Among the main determinants identified are chronic diseases, persistent pain, functional decline, depression, social isolation, grief, low income, retirement, and weakening of family ties. Furthermore, a difference was observed between the sexes, with a higher number of completed suicides among men and more attempts among women. It is concluded that strengthening public policies, support networks, and interdisciplinary strategies is fundamental for suicide prevention and the promotion of healthy and humane aging.