HomePsychology and Education: A Multidisciplinary Journalvol. 34 no. 1 (2025)

A Case Study on A 76-Year-Old Housewife, Diagnosed with Schizophrenia

Hannah Zoe Maglajos

Discipline: others in psychology

 

Abstract:

Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness marked by several strange behaviors, including hearing voices (hallucinations), distorted or false perceptions, and unconventional ideas. Many people do not know much about this disorder or think they do, but their views are incorrect. People imagine some ridiculous behavior of a person with Schizophrenia and typical misconceptions about this type of disorder, bringing up pictures of a person with untidy looks, messy hair, and ripped clothes. In this matter, the researcher aimed to understand Schizophrenia better, recognize the signs and symptoms, and find and access the care and support they need. This study utilizes an interview with the second eldest daughter of the 76-year-old housewife, who was suspected of having symptoms of Schizophrenia in 1993, but it was only confirmed in 2013. The researcher gathered the necessary information, including the cause of the disorder, signs and symptoms, treatment strategies, and scientific breakthroughs. Findings revealed that one of the interactions of the 76-year-old housewife was between genes and personal, familial, social, educational, occupational, and other vital areas of life are usually accompanied by severe suffering and impairment (e.g., the death of the husband and what she sees around may be the reason to remember him) cause the disorder. There is no known treatment for Schizophrenia, but different methods and techniques can assist the individual in living freely. These numerous ways and strategies have prescribed a combination of drugs, therapy, and rehabilitation. However, in the case of this 76-year-old housewife, she has been prescribed only an antipsychotic medication (Clozapine). Moreover, if the 76-year-old had been treated early and had enough money for treatment strategy and a stable support system, it might not have led to such severe mental illness. Thus, to avoid such a large gap in the treatment of mental illness, there must be a health action plan outlining the procedures necessary to offer appropriate assistance to those suffering from mental illnesses such as Schizophrenia. One significant proposal of the action plan is to move services from facilities to the community so that more individuals can access quality, affordable mental health treatment.



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