Do people with schizophrenia improve with age?

Question

Bob Rungta....TPMC Consultancy INC.

Answer 1

Schizophrenia is a disease that typically begins in early adulthood; between the ages of 15 and 25. Once diagnosed, they have it for the rest of their lives. Currently there is no cure. It is not something they find more of the older you get. So, there are fewer schizophrenias in aged people.

Answer 2

Interesting question... Two things come to mind,

1) Yes, I think people can grow through mental health issues, learn more about themselves, and learn how to cope better with the increasing knowledge and experience and the more sophisticated medications. .Also down the track the person has possibly tried a few different types of treatment and hopefully found an effective one.

2) I have heard schizophrenia is degenerative to some extent.. It does worsen slightly with age - but i am not sure whether this is in fact the case.. I know of a man who with age has learnt to deal with it and has now devoted his life to talking about it and raising awareness and support for a foundation for schizophrenia.. he's certainly an inspiration and hope for anyone out there with schizophrenia.. as he lives a full and rewarding, and VERY productive life..

Answer 3

It depends upon their level of diagnosis of schizophrenia. Some people may be affected severely even with treatment of certain medications. Some people can function daily in society with medication. Some people may show improvements in behavior or health depending upon how well they take care of themselves. I've seen first hand how eating habits, types of medications taken, exercise, spirituality and environment (including relationships & events) can bear very positive or negative results on anyone with this diagnosis. These are ALL important factors for an individual with or without schizophrenia who wants to age well mentally. Unfortunately, I have not lived long enough to know of the end result of someone who has lived their entire adult life with this diagnosis. I hope this helps.

Answer 4

Chemical Defect in the Brain: The neurotransmitters (brain messanger chemicals) glutamate and dopamine are thought to be another contributor to schizophrenia.

After careful diagnosis by a Mental Health Care Professional, it may be controlled with medicines designed to enable the patient to regain much (if not all) of their independence. See the links below for more information...on the subject matter.

Also, thyroid imbalances are known to cause schizophrenic "like" symptoms ...a thyroid test may be requested of the patient's physician (an added blood test along with that for cholesterol).

Remember also that their personal gains and improvements may not seem remarkable to an ordinary person while it may be quite an accomplishment for them. Also, look for education opportunities provided via Federal and State based Rehabilitation agencies. Employers are no longer able to discriminate against persons with mental disorders...so work is a viable option to give purpose and meaning to someone with mental disorders. If you feel discriminated against, speak with an attorney who specializes in personal injury, constitutional law, or employment law.

Answer 5

Usually depend whether or not it is treated and the type of schizophrenia. There are, I believe 3 types of schizophrenia, and then there is also schitzoeffective disorder. But, usually the only way to stop the hallucinations is by medication and therapy.

Answer 6

People with Schizophrenia only improve with the correct treatment and medication. If they stop taking their medication, their Schizophrenia becomes more difficult to control and the person becomes unstable.

Answer 7

I don't believe that age alone will improve the condition. My brother came down with it at the age of 14 or 15. He is now 61 and remains institutionalized, even after undergoing electroshock therapy, drug treatments and psychotherapy. It's a very difficult condition to overcome.

Answer 8

If you mean is it something you out grow? The answer is no. This disorder can only be controlled with the right balance if medications. Unfortunately many patients, especially in the mental health category, stop taking their meds when they feel better and this of course the symptoms of the disorder to return.

Answer 9

No. Age has nothing to do with this. With the advancing age, the brain/mind become numb and hence this feeling.

If you are the person, then join for yoga and meditation courses.
This will definitely bring down schizophernia to a considerable extent.

Answer 10

It doesn't just go away with age. I believe sometimes it is more pronounced than others like when the person is faced with a lot of stress. But, unless medicated they will eventually scare off most friends and relative.