Departmental Papers (SPP)
Document Type
Journal Article
Date of this Version
3-1-2012
Abstract
In the United States, more than 17 million people over the age of 65 own a firearm. They have the highest rate of suicide by a firearm, and recent data suggest that a disproportionate number apply to carry a concealed weapon. At least one new handgun has been designed and marketed with older people in mind. Memory, thinking, and judgment as well as physical and behavioral competence issues related to an elder's safe operation of a motor vehicle apply to firearms, too. Gun availability can pose a particular risk to those with dementia as well as to their caretakers. The elderly constitute a substantial and rapidly growing population/market segment for whom the public health implications of firearm production, promotion, access, ownership, and use merit consideration.
Recommended Citation
Mertens, B., & Sorenson, S. B. (2012). As We Age: Current Considerations About the Elderly and Firearms. Retrieved from https://repository.upenn.edu/spp_papers/156
Date Posted: 03 July 2013
This document has been peer reviewed.
Comments
Postprint version.
Mertens, B., & Sorenson, S. B. (2012). As we age: Current considerations about the elderly and firearms. American Journal of Public Health, 102, 396-400. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2011.300404.