Suicides In Switzerland Quadruple Among Older People

2025-07-10 04:08:29

(MENAFN- Swissinfo) The suicide rate among older people in Switzerland has reached record levels. The main reason for this is euthanasia. Other suicides are on the decline, but there is a significant gender difference. This content was published on July 10, 2025 - 09:00 4 minutes SRF

Senior citizens were 42 times more likely to take their own lives in 2023 than people in other age groups, according to Swiss public broadcaster, RTS.

And the numbers are increasing: in the past 25 years, the proportion of over 85-year-olds in Switzerland who decide to take their life has quadrupled. Among 65- to 84-year-olds, this proportion has doubled.

In contrast, the suicide rate among the younger population has fallen by around 30% in the past two decades.

External Content

An analysis of the cases shows that these high figures among senior citizens are largely due to the frequent use of assisted suicide. Assisted suicide is legal in Switzerland if it is not carried out for selfish reasons.

How does euthanasia work in Switzerland? You can find all of this here in our comprehensive dossier:

More Why assisted suicide is 'normal' in Switzerland

In Switzerland, assisted suicide is considered a legitimate way to end your life.

Read more: Why assisted suicide is 'normal' in Switzerlan

MENAFN10072025000210011054ID1109782882

Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.