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Committee hears calls for more geriatric mental‑health services after testimony on suicide among older veterans
Summary
Witnesses and members told the subcommittee that older veterans face distinct suicide risks and gaps in specialty mental‑health care in state veterans homes; GAO, VA and state officials discussed pilot programs, geriatric psychiatry, and adult day services as preventive measures.
Chairwoman Miller Meeks opened the hearing by noting a recent case she said highlighted gaps in care: “Just 2 weeks ago, a 77 year old veteran tragically committed suicide at a VA medical campus,” she said, and added that older‑age suicide among veterans remains under‑researched.
Members and witnesses discussed how dementia, social isolation and bereavement can increase suicide risk for older veterans and how state veterans homes might support prevention. VA witnesses said they are coordinating with the Office of Mental Health and Suicide Prevention to plan educational…
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