Older adults in Illinois are at increased risk of suicide due to a number of factors, according to a new study by Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine.

Fortunately, research published by Psychiatric Services indicates that in-home care can reduce the risk of depression and suicide through patient and caregiver education. According to the study, “educating patients about depression and its treatment and assisting patients with setting personal goals is highly consistent with routine home health care. Home health care also recognizes the need to connect patients with community resources (e.g., senior centers) as a way to increase social interactions and pleasurable activities for depressed patients.” ALC staff actively monitors patient mental health; our social work team proactively addresses identified needs.