Yes, psychosis can get better with age, although the magnitude of improvement varies from person to person. While some people may experience a complete resolution of their psychotic symptoms, others may experience only a partial reduction of symptoms.
The natural course of psychotic disorders, such as schizophrenia and schizoaffective disorder, is characterized by a pattern of recurring episodes of psychosis, usually followed by a period of remission. With age, the duration of time between episodes tends to increase, while the intensity and duration of the episodes themselves tend to decrease. Additionally, some people may experience a reduction in the number and severity of psychotic symptoms even between episodes.
The mechanisms behind this improvement with age are not fully understood. It is thought that the neurobiological processes underlying psychosis, such as changes in the brain’s dopamine system, may change with age. Additionally, the ability of the brain to compensate for these changes may also improve with age, leading to a reduction in symptoms.
In addition to the biological factors, psychosocial factors also play a role in the improvement of psychosis with age. As people age, they often develop better coping skills, gain more life experience, and build stronger social networks, which can help them better manage their psychotic symptoms.
Overall, age can be a positive factor when it comes to psychosis, as it may lead to a reduction in symptoms and a better quality of life. It is important to note, however, that treatment with medications and psychotherapy is still recommended to help manage symptoms.