12/06/2025
The essential but often overlooked role of physiotherapy in delirium care
🧠 Did you know that delirium affects up to 50% of hospitalised elderly patients but is frequently missed in diagnosis?
This serious clinical syndrome is characterized by rapid onset confusion, altered consciousness, and fluctuating symptoms. While delirium is often triggered by underlying medical conditions – from infections to medication side effects or even simple issues like constipation – it's also frequently preventable.
As physiotherapists, we have several powerful tools to help prevent and manage delirium:
- Early mobilisation (one of the most effective preventive strategies!)
- Orientation techniques during therapy
- Ensuring patients have their sensory aids (glasses, hearing aids)
- Non-pharmacological pain management
- Contributing to normal sleep-wake cycles through appropriate activity
These approaches are especially important in high-risk situations like post-surgery recovery, Parkinson's disease management with multiple medications, or post-stroke care.
Want to learn more about this important aspect of geriatric care? Physiopedia offers a comprehensive, evidence-based resource on delirium that's completely FREE and accessible to everyone: https://www.physio-pedia.com/Delirium
