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Answers to some of the most frequently asked questions I get about delirium

What is delirium?

Delirium is an acute medical problem often resulting in changes in cognitive function and mentation (e.g., the way the brain thinks, remembers, processes information, etc). It can create problems in thinking and cause confusion.

For example: An older adult who typically knows where they live and the day of the week may suddenly NOT know! Or, a person with dementia who is usually agreeable to receiving assistance from caregivers like with taking medications or bathing, may suddenly refuse care, and may even become agitated.

Delirium usually comes on very quickly. Like within hours or a few days.

What's the difference between dementia and delirium?

Do you know if the medications your older loved ones are taking are actually harming them?

You might have a guess, but how do you actually know?!

Thankfully there is a resource, called the Beers List, put out by the American Geriatrics Society, that lists potentially harmful medications for older adults!

The Beers List is a list of prescription and over the counter (OTC) medications put out by the American Geriatrics Society every 3 years. It includes a long list of medications that are potentially inappropriate and harmful for use in older adults.

This list was originally designed for clinicians, educators, researchers, healthcare systems, etc, but it is VERY important that YOU, as a caregiver for an aging parent, know about this list as well!

Having this information will help YOU communicate with your loved one's medical providers and help YOUR LOVED ONE live their best life! 

Watch the interview now!

Read the transcript

In this bonus...

One of the most complicated situations families that I work with are faced with has to do with older adults with dementia developing a delirium.

Is the dementia worsening? Or is it a delirium? It's so hard to tell.

In this interview, Dr. Frank explains the difference between dementia and delirium and talks about the signs that you should be aware of that would indicate that your loved one needs medical care. She also gives an overview of what to expect in the Emergency Room with your loved one with dementia, who may also have delirium. And, we talk about the important role that families play.

Watch the interview now!

Read transcript here!

Lisa Frank, MD is a board certified...