Who is at Risk?
Increasing age
The risk of delirium increases with each year of age.
People >75 years old are at a much higher risk.
Difficulties in thinking
Any difficulties in thinking or memory increase the risk of delirium. These include diagnoses such as mild cognitive impairment, dementia and a previous history of stroke or other head injuries.
Photograph by Tricia King for Picture Yourself (CC BY-NC)
Impaired vision or hearing
The risk for delirium increases if you or your person have trouble with your vision or hearing. To decrease this risk, assist your person to wear their glasses and hearing aids.
Illness and infection
Any infection may increase the risk of having delirium, more severe infections increase the risk.
Multiple medical conditions
Having multiple medical conditions such as diabetes or cancer, having surgery, or using tobacco or alcohol increases the risk of delirium.
Taking 5 or more medicines
Taking several medications at once can increase the risk of delirium. If you are concerned about your or your person's medications, ask a pharmacist or practitioner for a medication review.
Change in environment
Change in weather such as extreme heat or cold can increase the risk of delirium. Moving to a different home, living space or going to hospital can also put a person at risk of delirium.
When it is hot, remember to drink fluids
Photograph by Ty Fox for Picture Yourself (CC BY-NC)
Clearer Days Delirium Support
Acknowledgement of Country
Clearer Days Delirium Support acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands around Australia where it was developed and pay our respects to Elders past and present.
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