Am I at Risk?

Increasing age

The risk of delirium increases with each year of age.
Those >75 are at a much higher risk.

Difficulties in thinking

Any difficulties in thinking or memory increase or risk of delirium. These include diagnoses such as mild cognitive impairment, dementias and a previous history of stroke or other head injuries.

Impaired vision or hearing

Your risk for delirium increases if you have trouble with your vision or hearing. To decrease this risk, wear your glasses and hearing aids in the hospital.

Illness and infection

Any infection may increase your risk of having delirium, more severe infections increase the risk.

Multiple medical conditions

Having multiple medical conditions such as diabetes or cancer, having a large surgery, or using tobacco or alcohol increases your risk of delirium.