Does Schizophrenia Get Worse With Age?

It’s not like I’m some freak of nature because I have schizophrenia. In general, like the saying says “I have schizophrenia, I am not schizophrenia.”

I am appalled at how many people treat me as such. My mind is a little more creative than yours. Therefore, now that that is out of the way, let’s get down to business.

Does schizophrenia get worse with age? Through my experience, I will say yes. Subsequently, I’ve had more episodes more so within the past few years than in my 20’s and 30’s.

The symptoms have become worse and more pronounced. I’ve had more and more episodes in the past few years than early years combined.

Why Does Schizophrenia Get Worse With Age?

Schizophrenia is a chronic disorder that may change in severity over time, but it doesn’t “typically” worsen with age.

However, as people with schizophrenia age, their symptoms may change in frequency and intensity.

Some symptoms, like hallucinations and delusions, may decrease over time, while others, like negative symptoms and cognitive impairment, may persist or worsen.

Here are some reasons why schizophrenia symptoms may change with age:

Brain Structure

Changes in the brain’s structure may be a factor.

For example, a 2016 study found that the brains of people with schizophrenia tend to shrink more quickly than those of people who are the same age but don’t have the disorder.

This could lead to cognitive and emotional decline.

Medications

Antipsychotic medications are the primary treatment for positive symptoms, like hallucinations and delusions, and can be very effective.

However, as people age, their medications may become less effective, and this may not be obvious to others.

Social Isolation

As people age, they may become more socially isolated, which can lead to increased negative symptoms like social withdrawal and reduced emotional expression.

Cognitive Decline

Specifically, schizophrenic patients have a higher risk of dementia than the general population, and cognitive decline can make it harder to take medication.

Life Circumstances

Hence, as people’s life circumstances change, they may become unable to cope with the illness, especially if they have adult responsibilities like work and family.

Other factors that can make schizophrenia symptoms worse include: Drinking more alcohol than recommended, Misusing drugs, and Not following treatment plans.

What Are the Signs of Schizophrenia Getting Worse?

Does schizophrenia get worse with age? There are several signs that schizophrenia symptoms may be worsening, including:

Behavior changes

People with schizophrenia may become withdrawn, antisocial, or isolated. They may also have more symptoms, such as paranoia, hallucinations, and bizarre behavior.

Other behavioral changes include talking to themselves, laughing, or acting up, getting angry for no reason, or paying less attention to grooming, hygiene, or how they dress.

Mood changes

People with schizophrenia may experience depression, anxiety, or mood swings. They may also seem depressed or have a flat personality or mood.

Thoughts

People with schizophrenia may have odd thoughts that won’t go away, or express suicidal or homicidal thoughts.

They may also have delusions, which is believing in something that may not be true, such as believing they are in danger or that others are trying to hurt them.

Other changes

People with schizophrenia may have trouble sleeping, lack focus, or have no interest in friends or usual activities.

They may also experience changes in their appetite, eating, or sleep patterns.

If your symptoms worsen, you could notice:

Firstly, Depression.
Anxiety.
Short temper.
Fourthly, Trouble sleeping.
Lack of focus.
No interest in friends or usual activities.
A feeling that you can’t trust others.
Lastly, Strange speech patterns.

If Schizophrenia Goes Untreated

Does schizophrenia get worse with age? If left untreated, schizophrenia can cause severe problems that affect a person’s physical, emotional, and behavioral well-being. These problems can include:

Mental health: Depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and thoughts of suicide
Substance abuse: Hence, misuse of alcohol, drugs, and prescription medication
Social isolation: Difficulty maintaining relationships, interfamilial conflicts, and being the victim of aggressive behaviors
Financial: Additionally, money problems, homelessness, and poverty
Education: Inability to attend or finish school
Health: Self-injury and other health and medical problems

Untreated schizophrenia can also cause people to have trouble organizing their thoughts and behaving in ways that put them at risk for injuries or other illnesses.

Cosequently, in severe cases, people with schizophrenia may gravitate towards dark thoughts that could lead to violent behavior.

However, people with schizophrenia are actually more likely to be victims of violent crime than most people.

Early diagnosis and treatment can help people with schizophrenia lead normal, happy lives.

In some cases, people may be able to manage schizophrenia without medication under medical guidance.

Elderly Schizophrenia and Dementia

Does schizophrenia get worse with age? People with schizophrenia have a higher risk of dementia than the general population, especially as they age.

This may be due to a number of factors, including:

Cognitive Decline

Cognitive decline can begin 14 years before the onset of psychosis and accelerate in middle age.

This may be due to age-related cognitive decline, low cognitive reserve, or accelerated cognitive aging.

Medications

Also, exposure to certain medications, such as antipsychotics, anticholinergics, and benzodiazepines, can increase the risk of dementia.

Neurodegenerative Diseases

Schizophrenia may increase the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s disease or vascular dementia.

Thus, other factors that may contribute to the increased risk of dementia in people with schizophrenia include cerebrovascular disease and functional deterioration.

Schizophrenia and dementia have some overlapping symptoms, including problems with memory, executive functioning, and behavior.

Both conditions can also cause psychosis, which is when someone believes things that aren’t true or experiences things that aren’t real.

However, the two conditions also have some key differences, such as age of onset:

Schizophrenia

Usually occurs in younger people, with an average age of onset in the late teens to early 20s for men and late 20s to early 30s for women.

Dementia

Most common in older people, with an average age of onset of 83 in the United States. However, early onset of neurocognitive disorders is becoming more common.

Both schizophrenia and dementia are treatable, but there is no cure for either condition.

They can also both shorten a person’s life and are associated with other chronic medical illnesses, such as heart disease.

Do People With Schizophrenia Know They Have It?

Yes, I am very well aware that I have it. Others, that are not on medication might not recognize this. They may just think that’s how life goes.

I had the advantage (if you want to call it that) of seeing my mother go through it and I knew there would be a possiblility that I could have it.

It more so expressed itself in my late 20’s. I can’t really remember when I had my first episode. My mind is kind of hazy around that time because of the ECT.

The ECT took out blocks of my memory, so there’s a lot I don’t remember like when I got married, my honeymoon, or moving into our house.

What Should People With Schizophrenia Avoid?

Does schizophrenia get worse with age? I believe it does.

Individuals with schizophrenia should consider avoiding the following to help manage their symptoms and overall well-being:

Substance Abuse: Avoiding drugs and alcohol is crucial, as these can exacerbate symptoms and interfere with treatment.
High-Stress Situations: Stress can trigger or worsen symptoms, so it’s beneficial to avoid overly stressful environments or situations when possible.
Poor Sleep Habits: Maintaining a regular sleep schedule and good sleep hygiene is important, as lack of sleep can negatively impact mental health.
Skipping Medication: It’s essential to consistently take prescribed medications and avoid stopping them without consulting a healthcare provider.
Isolation: While it can be tempting to withdraw, social isolation can worsen symptoms. Staying connected with supportive friends and family is important.
Negative Influences: Avoiding people or situations that are toxic or unsupportive can help maintain mental health stability.
Overstimulation: Environments that are overly loud or chaotic can be overwhelming, so it’s good to seek quieter, more calming spaces.
Ignoring Symptoms: It’s important to be aware of changes in symptoms and to communicate with healthcare providers about any concerns.
Unhealthy Lifestyle Choices: A poor diet, lack of exercise, and neglecting self-care can impact overall health and well-being.
Neglecting Follow-Up Care: Regular check-ins with healthcare providers are important for monitoring and adjusting treatment as needed.

Is it Safe to Live With a Schizophrenic?

Does schizophrenia get worse with age…yes?

If they’re on medication, they’re safe to live with.

Living with my mother was stressful because she wasn’t on meds. She kept talking to someone that wasn’t there.

Also, she became very aggressive towards everyone. That could have been partially from the dementia.

Hopefully I’m easy to live with. Subsequently, I’ve had only 1 long episode since moving in with my dad five years ago. It lasted for about a year.

Extra Senses With Schizophrenia

Does schizophrenia get worse with age? I believe so.

Can I ask you a question? Do you believe that certain people with a heightened sense of awareness CAN sense things that other people can’t sense?

Kind of like pets can see things that people can’t see. I believe that is true for people also. Things have happened since I’ve lived here that are unexplainable and I’m not the only witness.

I always have to know the why or how of everything and it’s just been bothering me concerning some situations that have happened in this house.

I believe something followed me here from the old house I used to live in because strange things happened there too. Also, things happened at work when I was still working.

I whole-heartedly believe that I wasn’t having an episode. This felt different. I was very aware of everything that was happening unlike during an episode. I was just made to think I was having an episode.

How to Manage Schizophrenia to Improve Your Life Expectancy

Does schizophrenia get worse with age? Mine has. Likewise, managing schizophrenia effectively can significantly improve quality of life and may positively influence life expectancy. Here are several strategies that can help:

Adhere to Treatment: Consistently taking prescribed medications is crucial. Antipsychotics can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of relapses.
Regular Medical Check-Ups: Whereas, routine visits to healthcare providers can help monitor both mental and physical health, addressing any issues early.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices:
- Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can support overall health.
- Exercise: Regular physical activity can improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote physical health.
- Sleep Hygiene: Prioritizing good sleep habits can enhance mental health and overall well-being.
Stress Management: Learning and practicing stress-reduction techniques, such as mindfulness, meditation, or yoga, can help manage symptoms and improve resilience.
Social Support: Maintaining connections with family, friends, and support groups can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of isolation.
Avoid Substance Abuse: Steering clear of drugs and alcohol can prevent exacerbation of symptoms and improve treatment outcomes.
Education and Awareness: Therefore, understanding the condition and its effects can empower individuals to manage their symptoms better and advocate for their needs.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Engaging in therapy can help address negative thought patterns and improve coping strategies.
Develop a Routine: Establishing a daily routine can provide structure and stability, which can be beneficial for mental health.
Stay Engaged: Participating in meaningful activities, hobbies, or vocational training can enhance self-esteem and provide a sense of purpose.
Monitor Physical Health: Being aware of and managing physical health issues, such as diabetes or heart disease, is important. Undoubtedly, individuals with schizophrenia may be at higher risk for these conditions.
Crisis Planning: Having a plan in place for potential crises can help individuals feel more secure and prepared.

Therefore, it’s important for individuals with schizophrenia to work closely with their healthcare providers to tailor these strategies to their specific needs and circumstances.

How Long do Schizophrenia Patients Live?

According to a 2017 meta-analysis, people with schizophrenia die 14.5 years earlier than the general population, with an average life expectancy of 59.9 years for men and 67.6 years for women.

This is because schizophrenia is considered a severe mental illness that can shorten a person’s life expectancy.

Some factors that contribute to early death in people with schizophrenia include:

Suicide: Moreover, people with schizophrenia are more likely to die by suicide, especially in the first four years of the disease.
Accidents: Accidental deaths are about twice as common as suicides.
Substance use: Substance-use-related deaths that are not related to suicide are also common.

However, people with schizophrenia can live normal lives with proper treatment.

Treatment includes medication, therapy, social and family support, and social services. Long-term antipsychotic treatments have also been shown to lower the risk of death.

Sum It All Up

Does schizophrenia get worse with age? In short, yes. How do you sum schizophrenia up nice and neat.

Most people are even afraid to talk about it like it’s a disease and they might catch it.

On the whole, it’s a mental illness not some disease. if you want to consider it a disease, think of it as a disease of the brain. It doesn’t make you any less of a person.

We have feelings too that can be hurt just like anyone else. We feel pain, physical or mental. There is so much stigma behind schizophrenia that it’s hard to cut through the crap.

So, I have to look forward to dying early. Well, I’m going to make the best of those years since I missed out (somewhat) on the previous years. Stay safe. Until next time…

Articles About Schizophrenia

-What is the life expectancy for people with schizophrenia?

https://www.mentalhealth.com/library/life-expectancy-for-schizophrenia#:~:text=The%20studies%20concluded%20that%20men,years%20and%20women%2067.6%20years.

-Does Schizophrenia Get Worse with Age?

https://www.verywellmind.com/does-schizophrenia-get-worse-with-age-5219893#toc-what-does-schizophrenia-look-like-when-it-gets-worse

-What Happens When Schizophrenia Goes Untreated?

https://psychcentral.com/schizophrenia/untreated-schizophrenia#1

Have a Good One,

Cindee Murphy
“One Voice In The Vastness Of Emotions”

“Schizophrenia may affect how we perceive reality, but it cannot diminish the power of our imagination and the strength of our spirit.” — Dr. Rameez Shaikh

“As well as being one of the worst things that can happen to a human being, schizophrenia can also be one of the richest learning and humanizing experiences life offers.” — Mark Vonnegut

“People are always selling the idea that people who have mental illness are suffering. But it’s really not so simple. Hence, I think mental illness or madness can be an escape also.”— John Nash, PBS interview

“I have schizophrenia. therefore, I am not schizophrenia. I am not my mental illness. My illness is a part of me.” — Jonathan Harnisch