What is Delirium?

Delirium is a sudden onset of confusion and it causes changes in how someone acts and how they think. Some signs of delirium include:

    • Trouble paying attention.
    • Periodic confusion.
    • Becoming restless and upset.
    • Having trouble staying awake, sleeping more.
    • Seeing or hearing things that are not there.

 

Who's at Risk?

Possible factors that could put your loved one at risk of developing delirium include:

    • Persons 65 years or older
    • Severe illness or hip fracture
    • Have had delirium before
    • Extensive medical problems
    • Memory troubles
    • Taking more than five medications
    • Poor hearing and/or poor vision
    • Lack of sleep
    • Dehydration
 

Delirium Prevention Strategies

Delirium is preventable! For all older adults, use these proven strategies to help prevent delirium. If delirium develops, continuing to use these strategies will support the older adult.

    • Stimulating the mind: Promote daily socializing, reading, listening to music, completing mind challenge games (such as crossword puzzles), and activities or conversations that help remind older adults what day/month/year it is.
    • Moving: Promote physical activity – at least three times a day.
    • Sleeping well: Use techniques to promote relaxation and sufficient sleep.
    • Seeing and hearing: Ensure hearing aids and glasses are available at all times, if needed.
    • Staying hydrated: Ensure plenty of fluids are taken throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
    • Eating: Ensure nutritious food is available throughout the day, and promote eating with others if possible.

Delirium Statistics

In 2022, the Regional Geriatric Program of Toronto reported that up to 60 per cent of older adults who are hospitalized will develop delirium. According to the American Delirium Society, delirium effects up to:

    • 25 per cent of medical inpatients
    • 50 per cent of surgery patients
    • 75 per cent of ICU patients
Queensway Carleton Hospital’s Corporate Delirium Policy enables staffs’ identification, prevention, assessment, and management of delirium from an interdisciplinary approach includes nursing, physician, and allied health staff.

 


Delirium Resources