Delirium

Delirium is a change in mental state, which comes on suddenly, fluctuates over 24 hours, alters consciousness, disturbs thinking and attention, and results in changed behaviour. Symptoms include problems with attention, thinking, memory, psychomotor changes and the sleep-wake cycle (Lipowski, 1989; Ignatavicious, 1999, Bater, 2006, DSM-IV-TR, 2000).
If Delirium is not recognized, it can lead to permanent disability or death.
Delirium is considered a “medical emergency”.
Delirium affects older persons in all areas of health care. All staff must be skillful in recognizing and responding to it.
Shocking Delirium Statistics
Despite the fact that Delirium is treatable,
In Acute Care:
15% of older persons admitted to hospital have delirium
56% of older persons may develop delirium in hospital
30-40% of older persons become delirious after hip surgery
In Residential Care:
40-60% of residents experience delirium
http://www.viha.ca/ppo/learning/delirium/


References:

Link sites

National Institute of Mental Health

National Institute of Aging

Healthy Aging: Preventing Disease and Improving Qualityof Life Among Older Americans

Pocket Guide

Consumer’s Tool Kit for Health Care Advance Planning

Elder abuse victims

Calculator

Senior Health