Delirium is a sudden change in how someone thinks, acts or feels. It starts quickly, often over hours or a day or two, and can last for several days or longer. Delirium can be frightening for the person experiencing it, their family and carers. It can happen to anyone, at home or in hospital.

Delirium is common, but it's often missed. This is because symptoms are mistaken for something else, like dementia or just "old age". Family and friends are often the first to notice when someone isn't acting themselves, which makes them important in detecting delirium early.

What is Delirium?

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What are the risk factors?

• Being very unwell

• Infection

• Constipation

• Not enough food or water

• Older Age

• Dementia

• Depression

• Poor eyesight

• Taking many medications

• Recent surgery (e.g. hip surgery)

• Previous episodes of delirium

• Severe pain

• Certain medications

• Alcohol or smoking

• Stopping alcohol or medication suddenly

• Changes in a person’s environment

Prevention of Delirium

• Watch for changes. Notice if someone seems confused, more sleepy, agitated, or "not themselves".

• Check glasses and hearing aids. Make sure the person can see and hear clearly.

• Help them sleep well. Try to keep a regular bedtime. Avoid caffeine in the afternoon and evening.

• Keep moving. Walking or light activity can help.

• Eat well and stay active. A healthy diet and regular movement can help prevent constipation, which adds to confusion.

• Know the medications. Some medications, such as strong painkillers, sleeping tablets and bladder medications, can cause delirium as a side effect.

• Watch for withdrawal. Stopping smoking or drinking alcohol suddenly can cause withdrawal, which can contribute to delirium.

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