We're being told not to forget about the older community in a bid to prevent elderly suicide.

Elderly suicide is set to be discussed at a mental health conference attended by psychiatrists from New Zealand and Australia today.

Spokesperson for counselling service Relationship Matters Steve Taylor said elderly people often go into care and get visits from family once every couple of weeks.

He said this can make them feel lonely, helpless and without purpose.

"The more that a person loses their sense of hope and purpose then the less will they have to actually be able to contribute or go on living."

He said when people grow older some people assume they don't have much use anymore.

"They have a lot to contribute, particularly to the younger generation, and I think one of the key things we could do is have a situation where we could actually talk to a lot of people and say what is it that you would like to offer, what is that you would like to contribute and how can we help you do that."

 Are you affected by an issues in this article? Here's where to get help:
• Lifeline: 0800 543 354 (available 24/7)
• Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7)
• Youth services: (06) 3555 906
• Youthline: 0800 376 633
• Kidsline: 0800 543 754 (4pm to 6pm weekdays)
• Whatsup: 0800 942 8787 (1pm to 11pm)
• The Word
• Depression helpline: 0800 111 757 (available 24/7)
• Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
• CASPER Suicide Prevention
If it is an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.