From Hopkinsville to the most rural stretches of western Kentucky, isolation, financial strain, and health challenges are putting older adults at risk.
Marcie O’Neal, coordinator of the suicide prevention task force for the Kentucky Suicide Prevention Project, says the numbers show a clear and concerning trend.
click to download audioO’Neal says the effort stems from a nationwide push that began nearly a decade ago.
click to download audioSeniors face unique challenges brought on by the effects of aging.
click to download audioIsolation in rural areas add to the concern.
click to download audioTo combat those trends, O’Neal formed the Western Kentucky Senior Suicide Prevention Network.
click to download audioThe coalition includes local and state government representatives, health departments, faith-based groups, and businesses.
Outreach is a major part of the effort, including social media campaigns.
click to download audioBut one program has especially captured attention: a region-wide card campaign connecting students with seniors.
click to download audioThis year, the effort is expanding into an intergenerational pen-pal program between students at Christian County High School and residents at Charter Senior Retirement Community in Hopkinsville.
click to download audioThe Western Kentucky Senior Suicide Prevention Network meets every third Thursday of the month at the Pennyrile Area Development District office and virtually via Zoom.
If you or someone you know needs immediate help, call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
