When life loses its meaning: Sense of Coherence among elderly suicide attempters

Abstract

The results of this study show that social variables are associated with SOC. Spending too little time with one’s children, grandchildren as well as perceived loneliness and having moved in the past five years is associated with low SOC. This may be explained by the lack of social inclusion that these variables imply. It is also likely that routines, such as those gained from living in the same area for a long time, are of great importance for the individual. Social support may be able to help elderly individuals strengthen their SOC, which can have a tremendous impact on their wellbeing. A rich social life might make it easier to handle life’s challenges. A prospective study would be of great interest as it can give a comprehensive outlook on the phenomenon. A longitudinal study with repeated measurements is needed to validate that SOC has the effect which this study has shown. Also, a population based control group, consisting of non suicide-attempters of the same age as the group studied herein should be studied. It might also be of interest to examine other age-groups to see if the association found herein, is found elsewhere.