Delirium is type of sudden confusion that can happen after surgery. Delirium is more common in older adults and people with certain health conditions. It affects about 1 in 5 people after a big surgery. If it happens, it is important to know that it is often temporary and treatable.
Someone with delirium may:
- Feel mixed up of confused, including forgetting that they are in a hospital and are safe
- Have trouble paying attention
- See or hear things that are not really there
Delirium can start quickly and may feel upsetting for patients and their loved ones.
How Do We Check For Delirium Risk?
Some people have a higher chance of getting delirium after surgery. This can depend on things like your age, memory, the medicines you take, your overall health, and how big your surgery is.
Your health care team may ask you questions about your health and daily activities to see if you may be more likely to get delirium and if you may need extra support during and after surgery.
Even if you have a higher chance of experiencing delirium, it does not mean it will happen. Instead, it gives your health care team a chance to:
- Take steps to lower your risk
- Help you and your loved ones get ready for surgery
- Share tips on how to spot the signs of delirium and get help if needed
What Can You Do?
There are many things you can do before and after surgery to help lower your risk of delirium and support your healing.
Before Surgery: Set Yourself Up for Success
Here are helpful things you can do take:
- Stay active - Even short daily walks can keep your body and mind strong before surgery (Refer to the Getting Active Before Surgery section for more information).
- Eat well - Choose balanced meals with enough calories and protein to give your body energy for healing (Refer to the Nutrition section for more information).
- Cut back on alcohol, cannabis, and smoking - Cutting back or stopping can help your brain stay sharp. If you drink alcohol every day, your body may be dependent and stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your health care team before making changes (Refer to the Alcohol, Cannabis, and Smoking sections for more information).
- See a geriatrician (if recommended) - These doctors specialize in the care of older adults and can help review your health and medicines to help protect your memory and thinking.
After Surgery: Helping Your Brain Stay Clear
There are many simple things that make recovery easier:
- Wear your glasses and hearing aids - Seeing and hearing well helps you stay connected and makes it easier to talk with your health care team.
- Keep a day-night routine - Stay awake during the day (open the curtains, keep lights on) and sleep at night (close blinds, turn off lights). This helps your body's natural clock stay on track.
- Bring familiar items - A clock, calendar, or family photo can help you know where you are and feel more comfortable.
- Have family or friends nearby - A calm, familiar voice can comfort you and remind you where you are if you feel confused.
- Manage pain and discomfort - Your health care team will help you with pain control.
- Drink plenty of fluids - Staying hydrated helps your body heal and lowers your chance of confusion.
- Start moving - Sitting up in a chair or taking short walks can help your brain recover from surgery.
- Keep your mind active - Books, games, or other activities can help your brain stay engaged as you recover.
Delirium can be upsetting, but it is temporary and there are many ways to prevent or manage it. Your health care team and loved ones are here to support you. By following these steps, you are giving yourself the best change of healing safely and fully.
Where to Learn More
Delirium Prevention and Care with Older Adults pamphlet
Video about Postoperative Delirium (for Patients and Caregivers)