Delirium

Delirium is a medical condition characterised by sudden, severe confusion, disorientation, and changes in alertness. Unlike dementia, which develops gradually over months or years, delirium comes on rapidly — typically over hours or a few days. It is a medical emergency that usually has an identifiable and treatable underlying cause.

Common causes of delirium include infections (particularly urinary tract infections in older adults), dehydration, medication changes or interactions, pain, constipation, surgery, and hospital admissions. People with dementia are at significantly higher risk of developing delirium, and when it occurs, it can dramatically worsen their confusion and behaviour.

The symptoms of delirium can look similar to dementia but tend to fluctuate more dramatically. A person may be lucid one moment and severely confused the next. They may experience hallucinations, become very agitated or very withdrawn, have disrupted sleep patterns, or struggle to focus on anything. The key distinguishing feature is the sudden onset — if your loved one becomes significantly more confused than usual over a short period, delirium should be suspected.

If you notice sudden changes in your loved one's alertness, confusion, or behaviour, seek medical attention promptly. Delirium is a treatable condition, and the sooner the underlying cause is identified and addressed, the better the outcome. Left untreated, delirium can accelerate cognitive decline and lead to serious complications.

For caregivers, being familiar with your loved one's baseline behaviour is invaluable. You are often the first person to notice that something has changed, and your observations can help healthcare professionals diagnose and treat delirium quickly.