Psychogenic mortality syndrome: choosing to die by the institutionalized elderly

This article provides a literature review, conceptual framework, case history, and supportive data on the subject of psychogenic mortality, that is, the phenomenon of willing oneself to die that occurs among institutionalized elderly. The article is based on the observation of this phenomenon in a long-term care facility. The literature review provides background data from developmental studies in psychodynamic literature that may be applicable to this phenomenon as observed. The case history and supportive material suggests rationale and methods for intervention and treatment.