Korean J Geriatr Gerontol.  2014 Jun;15(1):1-8. 10.15656/kjcg.2014.15.1.1.

Clinical Approach to Confusion and Delirium in the Elderly

• Lee DK

• KMID: 2566520
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.15656/kjcg.2014.15.1.1

Abstract

Confusion and delirium are a common, life-threatening and potentially preventable clinical syndrome among persons who are 65 years of age or older. These syndromes are the most common behavioral disorders seen in an acute medical or surgical unit. Confusion can be regarded as a mild form of delirium and may give warning of the development of the more severe disorder. It causes an acute change of mental status, characterized by abnormal and fluctuating attention. It affects between 10∼30% of medically ill patients, especially the elderly and often shortly after admission to hospital. It causes prolonged admission, increased morbidity and mortality, and delayed discharge, often culminating in long-term care. The etiologies of confusion and delirium are diverse and multifactorial and often reflect the pathophysiological consequences of an acute medical illness, medical complication or drug intoxication. These syndromes can have a widely variable presentation, and is often missed and underdiagnosed as a result. At present, the diagnosis of these syndromes are clinically based and depends on the presence or absence of certain features. Management strategies are focused on the prevention and symptom management.

Keyword

Confusion; Delirium; Elderly