Suicidal-homicidal behavior of caregivers of persons with dementia

The relevance of assessing and taking care of mental health of caregivers of people with dementia is caused not only by their suicidal intentions towards themselves, but also thoughts about harming the persons they should give care to. Suicidal-homicidal intentions develop gradually, do not manifest themselves, and pose a potential danger for murder. The aim of the review is to summarize the motivational factors that encourage caregivers to commit suicidal and homicidal actions and to increase the medical and social effectiveness of preventing murders with the development of probable directions for prevention. Knowledge of the factors associated with suicide is essential to prevent tragic outcomes. Results. Socio-demographic characteristics are presented in relation to different motives and types of suicide. Risk groups that can lead to the murder of a disabled person are described. Reporting and practical use of the identified socio-demographic features will reduce the level of homicide in society. There is a clear need to support caregivers of people with dementia and disabilities. Family members who provide care to people with dementia have high rates of suicidal and homicidal thoughts, with depression being a risk factor and older age and lifestyle being protective factors. Interventions to reduce the risk of suicide in caregivers of people with dementia should focus on relieving depression and motivating them to continue their lives and those of their caregivers, teaching caregivers and social support.