Who Is at Risk for Delirium?

Delirium is a sudden change in a person’s mental state and ability to think clearly. It happens most often in older people who have a serious illness. There is a greater risk if the person has dementia. But delirium can happen at any age. And it does not always happen in someone with a serious illness.

Delirium is seen as an emergency. It needs to be looked at by a healthcare provider right away.

What raises a person’s risk?

Delirium can happen while a person is being treated for an illness or other serious health condition. It can also happen after surgery. The person may be in a hospital or nursing home. Or he or she may be at home. Delirium often goes unrecognized in older adults.

A person is at risk for delirium if he or she has one or more of these:

• Current dementia or cognitive impairment

• A past episode of delirium

• Depression

• Age 75 or older

• Any serious illness, such as cancer, heart attack, or metabolism problem such as those tied to kidney or liver failure

• Been admitted to intensive care in a hospital

• Physical restraints

• Been using or is withdrawing from drugs or alcohol

• Past or current brain injury or disease

• A bladder catheter

• An infection

• Broken bones, especially those that need orthopedic surgery

• Sleep problems because of light, noise, or other disruptions

• Constant or severe pain that is not well-managed

• Dehydration

• Poor nutrition

• Poor eyesight or hearing

• Several tests or treatments in a short time

• Not being able to move or pain with movement

• Recent surgery with anesthesia

If you know someone at risk

Delirium is an emergency. If you think that your loved one has delirium, get medical help right away.