The days following a hospital stay can be overwhelming for both older adults and their families. Whether it’s recovering from surgery, illness, or injury, there is much to monitor in terms of healing and overall health. One common yet often unexpected complication many families face after a loved one returns home is post-hospital delirium. This temporary but serious condition affects millions of older adults, creating confusion, agitation, and difficulty concentrating.
What Is Post-Hospitalization Delirium?
Delirium is a sudden and severe change in mental status. While it can occur in anyone, it is especially common in older adults, particularly after a hospitalization. It’s the most common complication in hospitalized older adults, impacting up to half of seniors who are admitted. This condition can come on quickly and lead to increased confusion, disorientation, and memory problems. It’s important to understand that delirium is not the same as dementia, though the two are sometimes confused. Delirium tends to come on rapidly and can fluctuate throughout the day, while dementia progresses more slowly over time.
The causes of post-hospital delirium vary. A mix of factors like surgery, anesthesia, infections, pain, sleep disturbances, and medications can all play a role in triggering it. In fact, even the unfamiliar environment of a hospital can contribute to this condition. While delirium often clears up after a few days or weeks, it can delay recovery and may even lead to longer-term complications if not properly managed.
The Importance of Monitoring and Managing Delirium at Home
After a loved one returns home from the hospital, you may notice changes in their behavior. They may seem more forgetful or confused, struggle to follow conversations, or have difficulty sleeping. In some cases, they may even hallucinate or become agitated.
It’s crucial to monitor the person’s condition closely and ensure they receive the proper care. Often, this is something that is best accomplished by a professional caregiver, who can:
- Provide a calm, structured environment: A consistent routine and familiar surroundings can help reduce confusion and anxiety in someone recovering from delirium.
- Monitor for changes in behavior: Caregivers can watch for subtle changes in behavior that may signal the need for further medical attention.
- Ensure medications are taken correctly: Medications can play a significant role in delirium, both as a cause and a treatment. A caregiver can make sure medications are taken as prescribed and report any side effects or concerns about the medication.
- Encourage hydration and nutrition: Dehydration and poor nutrition are common contributors to delirium. A caregiver can help with nutritious meals and hydration reminders, which can help support recovery.
- Help prevent falls and injuries: Delirium can lead to impaired coordination and judgment, increasing the risk of falls. A caregiver can assist with mobility and provide supervision to keep the person safe from harm.
Supporting Recovery with Professional Care
The road to recovery after a hospital stay can be challenging, especially when post-hospitalization delirium is part of the picture. While this condition can be frightening, it’s often temporary and manageable with the right support. Let Superior Aging Care find the right care and resources your family member needs to regain their strength and clarity. Contact us any time at 949-566-1871 to learn more about our care management services and how we can help someone you love before, during, and after a hospital stay.
