An elderly relative suddenly begins to get confused? You noticed quick changes in his behavior, state of awareness and his memory capacities? Then, it is possible that this senior is affected by delirium syndrome. But how can we recognize it? What are the main causes? And how about the treatment? To answer all these questions, let’s discover more about delirium in seniors.

Delirium is described as a state of confusion. The symptoms appear suddenly but also tend to resolve quickly. Even if it is temporary, this syndrome can be problematic in seniors’ daily activities. It can affect memory, attention, cause confusion or even disorientation. It is important to ensure that delirium is distinguished from neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia. Alzheimer disease, for example, may be similar in some ways. But it is essential to recognize the differences. 

Delirium is also described in other terms:

A temporary state of delirium usually has a specific cause. It is then important to identify it as soon as possible to treat the problem properly. Some situations are also considered as risk factors for this acute confusional state.

Without being direct causes, some risk factors increase the probability of developing delirium. Here are some examples :

Some other reasons are identified as more direct potential causes that can lead to delirium in the elderly. 

To confirm a delirium, an evaluation must be made by a health care professional. Doctors, or specialists, will base their opinion on the signs and symptoms. They will also analyze other alternatives and all the differential diagnoses.

Medical diagnosis is based on: 

According to the identified reason, the treatment will then be adapted to the cause of the delirium.

Did you notice sudden changes in the way that an elderly loved one is behaving? You may then wonder if this could be caused by a delirium? To properly recognize this acute brain syndrome, it is important to look for the signs and symptoms of this condition.

For a person suffering from acute confusion, the signs and symptoms observed are often fluctuating quickly. They may even change within a few hours only. Hopefully, in most cases, they also tend to resolve rapidly.

Being able to recognize the most common symptoms can allow you to help the person suffering from delirium. Here are some of the main manifestations of delirium :

Consulting a medical doctor in a situation of acute confusion 

If you notice the apparition of such symptoms, it is important to advise the doctor or the medical team in place. They will be able to investigate the causes to suggest the right treatment. Through a complete clinical examination, health care professionals will be able to distinguish delirium from other neurodegenerative diseases. 

The good news is that this state of confusion is temporary. It can vary from hours to days. The onset is sudden and delirium usually lasts less than 2 weeks. Some cases may last longer but are much rarer.

At first, it can be difficult to distinguish if an elderly relative is showing signs of delirium or dementia. Indeed, the two problems can be very similar in some ways. In addition, having dementia may also be a predisposing factor for the development of an acute confusional state for some seniors. 

Here are the main characteristics that can help to differentiate them better.

A senior with delirium will require assistance for the duration of their condition. Whether it is through family, a caregiver, hospital staff or home care, the important thing is that the person is well cared for.

An elderly person in a state of delirium needs to be reassured more than anything else. The presence of close relatives and caregivers is therefore a key factor. If it is possible for a family member or friend to stay with the person, that would be the best scenario. The presence of a close relative is most likely to have a calming effect. In addition, you will be ensuring her safety.

When visiting a relative with delirium, these simple tips can be helpful :

Whether at home or in a seniors’ residence, visiting your relatives can do a lot of good for them.

If your elderly parent is in a hospital, a long-term care center (CHSLD) or even a seniors’ residence during a delirium episode, the good news is that this person is already being cared for. Have faith in the medical team in place. When needed, make sure to cooperate with them. It is truly in your beloved relative’s best interest.

Even in these environments, visiting your relatives with delirium can be a very good idea. It helps to reduce the stress and reassure the person.

Another option to provide the best assistance to a senior with delirium is home care services. In the comfort of home, a variety of care is available for elderly people in need of assistance:

Personalized home care can be used for both short-term and long-term needs. Caregivers are very dedicated and involved in the well-being of seniors. 

Overall, although delirium in the elderly is a temporary condition, it can represent a challenging time for the senior as well as the family around them. To treat the problem as quickly as possible, it is important to identify the cause. For this reason, do not hesitate to discuss with the doctors and the medical team that is taking care of your relative.

If you need advice and support through all these steps, know that Visavie is always there for you. Our mission is to ensure the well-being of seniors and their families by supporting them as much as we can.