Rising Trend of Firearm Suicides Among Older Women Raises Concerns

Recent research conducted by Boston University School of Public Health and UCLA Luskin School of Public Affairs highlights a troubling increase in firearm-related suicides among older women. While men over 65 are more likely to die by firearm suicide—being approximately 13 times more at risk than women—the study reveals that the proportion of suicides by firearms among women in this age group is rising sharply. Data from 2014 to 2023 shows firearms involved in nearly 40% of suicides among women aged 65 and older, marking an increase from 34.9% in 2014.

The study, published in JAMA Network Open, analyzes firearm suicide data from the CDC, showing that more than 90% of the 63,599 older adults who died by firearm suicide during this period were men. However, the proportion of firearm suicides among women increased by about five percentage points, reaching 38.5%, reversing a longstanding decline since 1991. This shift underscores the urgent need for tailored interventions and increased mental health support for older women.

The research also highlights geographic disparities, with southern states like Alabama and Mississippi exhibiting the highest proportions of firearm suicides—over 90% among men and around 68% among women. Conversely, states with stricter firearm laws tend to report fewer firearm-related suicides. Experts emphasize the importance of healthcare providers addressing mental health and firearm safety discussions with older patients. As the population of older women continues to grow, especially in the United States, proactive measures are critical to prevent these tragic outcomes.

Factors contributing to this trend include physical health issues, depression, social isolation, financial stress, and easy access to firearms. Experts warn that firearm suicide is the leading method among adults over 65, and the risk of death is significantly higher due to the lethality of firearms and reduced chances of rescue. Addressing mental health needs and implementing effective firearm safety policies are essential steps to combat this rising issue.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-firearm-suicides-older-women-alarming.html