Imagine a senior who has been struggling since his wife died 2 weeks ago. His family is concerned about him and convinced him to hand over his rifles for safekeeping. They didn’t know about the loaded handgun in his nightstand. Sadly, he used it to end his life. Had that weapon been secured in a safe, the time needed to open it might have interrupted the impulse act.
Depressed person holding gun
Constance Holden, retired nurse and Rotary Club of Boulder member, notes that ageing may be a time of incredible upheaval / transition and loss. Seniors may be dealing with the loss of a spouse, a child, or other close friends or family members. Many seniors must adjust to loss of independence or function due to health changes. Some sense a loss of purpose and contribution after retirement. This increases risk for impulsive suicide. White the property. While this type of fraud is rare, it is on the rise. And signing up for Property Alert is a simple and proactive way to safeguard your property.
White men over 75 have the highest rate of suicide deaths nation‑wide. Ownership of a handgun increases risk of completed suicide eightfold. Many suicide attempts are impulsive and having rapid access to a firearm increases the risk that a physical or mental health crisis will end in suicide. In Colorado, 75% of gun violence deaths are suicide. By removing or securely storing firearms from homes, we can reduce the number of suicides.
On October 18th 9‑11, the Boulder Rotary Club and Boulder Community Health will be hosting a giveaway of cable locks, home safes and car safes. Come by and pick up these items which help prevent accidents with children and impulse acts associated with domestic violence and suicide. More informatiion is available at: Boulderrotary.org