Delirium is traditionally viewed as a short-term, temporary problem. However, evidence is growing that it may persist for weeks to months in many people, especially in older people. In hospitalized patients, delirium is linked to poor outcomes, such as higher risk of death, complications, long hospital stays, and nursing home care. Poor outcomes are particularly common among older adults whose delirium continues for a long time.

Nevertheless, family members need to understand that delirium usually does clear. Slow recovery is more common if delirium is severe, if the person already has dementia, or if the person is 85 years old or older. Careful supportive care and monitoring of mental status during this period are crucial to recovery. 

Caregiver and Family Assistance

Family members can play an important role by providing appropriate orientation, support, and assistance. More and more, hospitals are allowing family members to stay overnight with relatives who are already delirious or at high risk for delirium. A caregiver should get medical help right away if the person's mental status worsens suddenly.

There are caregiver support groups in many regions. Caregiver resources are available from healthcare providers, recognized mental health organizations, libraries, community centers, or online. An internet search using “caregiver support” and “older people” as keywords will list many groups that provide support by telephone, or in-person. Members of these groups get support by talking about their experiences, sharing strategies for coping, and informing each other about locally available community resources.  Groups may be organized through nonprofit organizations, clinics, churches or other places of worship, or even by interested individuals.   

Last Updated July 2020