Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a disorder in which a person has difficulty recovering after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event. Many people wonder if PTSD can get worse with age. The answer is yes, PTSD can worsen over time, but it doesn’t happen to everyone. Getting treatment for trauma will lessen the likelihood of it worsening with age.

Understanding PTSD
What is PTSD?
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Common symptoms of PTSD are flashbacks & uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Many people also have nightmares & severe anxiety. Practically anyone can develop PTSD. Symptoms of PTSD can last a lifetime if not treated properly.
Common Causes of PTSD
PTSD is caused by various traumatic events. People in the military are the most prone to it since they witness terrible things that many others do not. But it can also be caused by other events like natural disasters or personal assaults. The intensity & duration of PTSD symptoms varies for everyone. Like most things in life, PTSD affects everybody differently.
Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD symptoms are typically categorized into four groups:
- Intrusive Memories: Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event.
- Avoidance: Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event.
- Negative Changes in Thinking & Mood: Negative thoughts about oneself or the world, hopelessness, & difficulty maintaining close relationships.
- Changes in Physical & Emotional Reactions: Being easily startled, feeling tense, trouble sleeping, & angry outbursts.
How Age Affects PTSD
The Impact of Aging on PTSD Symptoms
As individuals age, their bodies & minds undergo various changes that can influence the severity of PTSD symptoms. Some research suggests that older adults might experience an increase in PTSD symptoms because of cognitive decline & health problems. For some people, aging is stressful. This along with having unresolved trauma can make your PTSD symptoms worse over time.
Cognitive Decline & PTSD
Aging often brings cognitive changes, such as memory loss & slower information processing. These changes can affect how older adults manage & cope with PTSD symptoms. For instance, memory impairments might make it more challenging to utilize coping strategies learned in therapy, leading to an increase in symptoms.
Physical Health & PTSD
Physical health problems common in older adults, such as chronic pain, cardiovascular disease, & diabetes, can complicate PTSD treatment. These health issues can contribute to a decline in mental health, making PTSD symptoms more pronounced. Additionally, the stress of managing multiple health conditions can overwhelm individuals, leading to a worsening of PTSD symptoms.
Social Support & PTSD
Social support plays a crucial role in managing PTSD. However, older adults might face reduced social support due to the loss of friends, family members, or spouses. This decrease in social interaction & support can lead to feelings of isolation & loneliness, exacerbating PTSD symptoms.
Managing PTSD as You Age
Seeking Professional Help
Professional help is vital in managing PTSD at any age. As individuals age, it becomes increasingly important to seek out specialized care that addresses both PTSD & age-related challenges. Therapists who understand the unique needs of older adults can provide tailored PTSD treatment that considers cognitive & physical health changes.
Therapies & Treatments
Several therapies have proven effective for treating PTSD, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), & medication. These treatments can be adapted to meet the needs of older adults, ensuring they receive the most appropriate care.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial in managing PTSD symptoms. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, & stress management techniques such as mindfulness & meditation can significantly improve mental health & reduce PTSD symptoms. Older adults should prioritize these healthy habits to enhance their overall well-being.
Building Social Connections
Staying socially active can help mitigate the effects of aging on PTSD. Engaging in community activities, joining support groups, & maintaining relationships with friends & family can provide much-needed emotional support. Social connections can act as a buffer against the stressors of aging, helping to keep PTSD symptoms in check.
Contact Our Team
While PTSD can worsen with age, effective treatment can help manage your symptoms. If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD, it’s crucial to seek professional help & build a robust support system. At 12 South Recovery, we offer comprehensive PTSD treatment tailored to each individual’s unique needs. Please share this blog with those who might benefit from it, & don’t hesitate to contact us for more information on our PTSD treatment programs.