Knowing If Your Loved One Has Delirium and How to Help

Delirium is sudden confusion that happens more often in older adults. It can make memory and thinking problems worse. Delirium may last for several hours or days, or it may come and go during the day or night. It often gets better when the cause is...

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Delirium is sudden confusion that happens more often in older adults. It can make memory and thinking problems worse. Delirium may last for several hours or days, or it may come and go during the day or night. It often gets better when the cause is found and treated.

  • What are possible causes?

    • Some medicines, infections, or serious illnesses
    • Not drinking, eating, or sleeping enough
    • Certain hospital protocols, such as physical restraints

  • What are the risk factors?

    • Already having memory loss
    • Having hip or heart surgery
    • Being depressed or becoming sick or injured

What are the signs?

  • Changes in thinking

    • The person seems confused about the time and place (disoriented).
    • They have problems with memory and speech.
    • They have trouble focusing or following instructions.

  • Changes in mood or personality

    • The person seems sleepy or can't stay awake.
    • They may be agitated or violent.
    • They seem more anxious, worried, or afraid than usual.
    • They see, hear, or feel things that aren't there (hallucinating).

What can you do to help?

  • Help them stay connected

    • Visit the person as often as you can.
    • Announce yourself, and speak calmly and clearly.
    • Remind them of the date, of where they are, and of friends and family.

  • Provide familiar items

    • Make sure the person has their glasses and hearing aids.
    • Bring reminders of home, if the person is in the hospital.
    • Put on their favorite music or TV shows.

  • Support daily routines

    • Help the person with basic needs, such as eating or dressing.
    • Try to keep their regular schedule during the day and night.
    • If they don't seem like themself, let their care team know.

  • Do things to help prevent delirium

    • Ask the person's doctor or care team how you can help manage their pain.
    • Watch for the use of certain medicines that can trigger delirium.
    • Make sure they drink enough water, eat healthy foods, get enough sleep, and stay active.

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