NSSI in Older Adults

Abstract This chapter explores the epidemiology of nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) in older adults. It explains how a systematic review presents the risk and protective factors of NSSI among the elderly population, referencing the selection process of the Meta-Analyses and Systematic Reviews of Observational Studies in Epidemiology. Even though some findings are similar to NSSI research on adolescents and young adults, the experience of loss is specific to NSSI-related behaviors among older adults. The chapter then considers the distinction between suicidal intent and the directness of self-harm within the elderly population. It suggests conducting a longitudinal, cross-cultural design that distinguishes between the specific forms of self-harm to conduct an early intervention and prevent NSSI repetition.