Delirium: A common Disorder In Elderly – Abstract, Symptoms Diagnosis and
Delirium: A common Disorder In Elderly – Abstract, Symptoms Diagnosis and
Practical Key Points
You must have noticed many old age people behave weirdly. And we ignore it by saying, “It happens because of aging”. This is exactly what delirium is. Most of the senior citizens are supposed to face this problem. So, what delirium actually is?
Delirium has now become a very common disorder. You can easily find one of three older people suffering from this disorder. It has become very prevalent, and the basic reason behind it is the aging population. Have a complete idea about what it actually is.
What is Delirium?
Delirium is basically a syndrome that causes mental failure in the elderly. You can define it as a serious disturbance in the mental abilities of a person that leads to increased confusion in thinking and reduced awareness of the environment. What’s strange is that delirium can start within a few days or even a few hours.
Symptoms
As said before, delirium shows its start within a few days or even a few hours. So, you get very less time to note the symptoms and then take steps accordingly. However, some of the common symptoms include:
Emotional Disturbances
- Rapid mood swings
- Anxiety or depression
- Euphoria
- Anger
Increased confusion in thinking
- Poor memory or disorientation
- Difficulty in recalling words or understanding speech
Behavior Changes
- Hallucinations
- Slowed movements
- Sleeping disorders
- Restlessness
Diagnosis
When you notice the above-mentioned symptoms in an older adult, you should take him to the doctor and get all the check-ups done. For the diagnosis of delirium, the doctor might need to check the medical history and then conclude the matter. Well, as far as the treatment is concerned, many people who have already been treated for delirium are found to suffer from it within 12 months of the treatment. In short, you can say that this mental disorder cannot be treated completely as it is caused due to aging. The most that you can do is provide the patient with medicines, a lot of love and utmost care.
Practical key points
In spite of everything mentioned above, you need to be informed about some of the key practical points. Keep theories apart and prepare your mind, knowing the below-mentioned points:
- If an elderly person is admitted with confusion, be mentally prepared to understand or presume that he is suffering from delirium, until the results prove you completely wrong.
- Early diagnosis means better treatment. So, use serial cognitive testing and the CAM testing for detection at an early stage.
- Implementation of programmes regarding clinical guidelines, education and practice changes for nursing, medical and allied health staffs are recommended.
- The patient is mentally weak and thus, requires the support of his family and carers.
- Keep a good check on the reports, health condition and recovery of the patient. Also, ensure good communication between primary care and hospital staff.
You need to act mature and know that the elderly patient is mentally unhealthy. Treat them nicely and help them recover.
