Characteristics of mental function of the aged. II. Follow up study through Rorschach technique and WAIS

Abstract

To analyze the mental process of “aging”, Rorschach-test and WAIS were administered, twice over an interval of one year, to 59 persons all over 65 years of age.Eight patients had psychiatric episodes and appeared older than their age, and 51 were control subjects, apparently healthy.The results indicate that images of contents of the Rorschach test were preserved regardless of aging or episodes, although the connection with certain Rorschach cards had a tendency to be lost, and that the pattern suggesting organic changes in the brain became more manifest in WAIS. The symptoms of mental aging were mainly attributable to disorientation in time and space, which reduced the ability of the patient to connect images systematically with actual time and space.Quick-temperedness and maudline character of the elderly, for example may be explained as an orientation dysfunction to control the emotions in accordance with actual situations, while the psychic apparatus and the motives to evoke emotion are preserved.It is noteworthy that these symptoms resemble Semantic Aphasia.Rapid aging observed after psychological conflicts e. g. social maladaptation or physical disorders (e.g. Thigh bone fracture). These may also be a reflection of disorientation such as was seen with patients described herein.Treatment of disorientation, by means of systematized reorganization images through social acceptance, support and encouragement is therefore the key to mental hygiene of the aged including preservation of psychological functions, which will protect them from Personal reference, Ideaperserveration fine details, Ambiguities in the blot choice as characterized in the proceeding report.