Hospital Delirium a Risk for Elderly

Delirium affects about 1 out of 3 hospital patients over age 70. It’s even higher for those who are in intensive care or recovering from surgery. And hospitals increasingly are trying to treat or prevent it, the New York Times reported June 20. People with delirum often have hallucinations. They may become violent or act in ways that cause them to get hurt. Nobody is sure of the causes, the Times reported. Infections, surgery or insertion of a catheter may make frail patients anxious. Some medicines also may be triggers. Changes in routine and location can be a factor, the Times said. People have their sleep interrupted for tests. They may not have their eyeglasses or dentures. Delirium can slow down recovery. About 35% to 40% of older adults with hospital dementia die within a year, a study found. Those who survive may have an increased risk of dementia.