Delirium prevention

Delirium is a sudden state of confusion that is more common in older adults, particularly during an illness or a hospital stay. Recognising the early signs and taking preventive measures can help reduce the risk.

How to prevent delirium

• Maintain a regular daily routine whenever possible.
• Get enough sleep and rest.
• Stay physically and mentally active according to your abilities.
• Wear your glasses, hearing aids, or other assistive devices if you need them.
• Maintain good hydration and a healthy diet.
• If you feel disoriented or have any concerns, ask your healthcare professionals or the people around you for help.

Warning signs

It is important to seek medical advice if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• You feel confused or disoriented and have difficulty knowing where you are or what day it is.
• You see or hear things that are not there.
• You notice sudden changes in your behaviour, such as irritability, agitation, or suspiciousness.
• You have difficulty recognising people around you.
• You feel very sleepy during the day or, on the contrary, unusually restless, especially at night.

If you are in hospital

During a hospital stay, the risk of developing delirium may increase because of the illness, changes to your usual routine, or certain treatments.

• Keep your glasses, hearing aids, or other assistive devices with you whenever you need them.
• Ask your family to bring familiar personal items, such as a clock, a calendar, or photographs, to help you stay oriented.
• During the day, try to stay awake and mentally active, and aim to rest at night.
• If you notice that you feel confused, disoriented, or experience any of the warning signs described above, inform your healthcare team immediately so they can assess your condition and provide the appropriate care.