epidemiology

Last edited 06/2018

epidemiology

Delirium is commonly seen in older patients who are hospitalised or are in long-term care facilities

Incidence during hospital admission

  • after hip fracture - 28% to 61%
  • after surgery - 15% to 53%
  • during hospitalisation (medical inpatients) - 3% to 29%

Prevalence of delirium:

  • intensive care unit
    • with mechanical ventilation - 60% to 80%
    • without mechanical ventilation - 20% to 50%
  • hospice - 29%
  • in the community, 85 years or older - 14%
  • in older people, 65 years or older
    • those living in long term care facilities - 10% to 34%
    • those in emergency departments - 30%
    • during a hospital stay - 10-42%
  • long-term care facility and postacute care - 1% to 60% (1,2)

Reference: