Despite high rates of firearm suicide among older adults, little is known about their needs and preferences for information on safer firearm storage. This study examines information needs and communication preferences of older adult firearm owners with depression or cognitive impairment to inform public health firearm injury prevention strategies.
We conducted 20 semi-structured interviews with older adult firearm owners with depression or mild cognitive impairment in the Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Montana and Idaho (WWAMI) region of the USA. We used a hybrid inductive-deductive approach and thematic analysis. Interviews occurred between October 2022 and February 2023.
Older adult firearm owners expressed a preference for messaging from trusted authorities and wanted comparisons of storage methods and information on firearm transfer or relinquishment. Trusted messengers included peer firearm owners, law enforcement and physicians. Participants preferred messaging that combined narrative and statistical or technical information and viewed video delivery as acceptable and often preferable.
Interventions must use accurate firearm terminology and be reviewed by experienced firearm owners to ensure credible messaging. Messengers should be prepared to discuss storage and transfer logistics aligned with relevant policy on firearm transfer or be prepared to connect patients with knowledgeable community partners.
Older adults identified knowledge gaps and expressed openness to counselling by trusted authority figures.