Current concepts - Delirium in older persons

The prevalence of delirium increases sharply with age, and about 20 percent of older patients have delirium at the time of hospital admission for any reason. This review summarizes the clinical manifestations of and risk factors for delirium and the evaluation of patients with this condition. It includes an update on the current understanding of the pathogenesis of delirium and provides guidance regarding practical measures to prevent this common complication. Copyright © 2006 Massachusetts Medical Society.