Seniors with memory loss are at higher risk for delirium after a fall. This article offers advice for caregivers on how to address and prevent delirium in seniors with cognitive impairment.
For seniors who have experienced a fall and are dealing with memory loss, delirium is a serious risk that can complicate recovery. Delirium is often triggered by factors such as pain, infections, or the disorientation caused by being in an unfamiliar hospital or rehabilitation setting. Seniors with memory loss may find it particularly difficult to understand what is happening to them, leading to increased anxiety and distress. Caregivers can help by being proactive in managing these risk factors, such as ensuring proper hydration, monitoring medications, and creating a calm, familiar environment. Reducing hospital readmissions and encouraging consistent follow-up care can also play a key role in preventing delirium from occurring.