Dementia and delirium are both conditions that affect cognitive function, but there are distinct differences.
| Feature | Delirium | Dementia |
|---|---|---|
| Onset | Sudden, develops quickly | Gradual, develops over months or years |
| Speech | Often slurred or confused | Usually normal until late stages |
| Attention | Fluctuates throughout the day | Generally alert until late stages |
| Hallucinations | Common | Possible in some types |
| Behaviour | Suddenly agitated and suspicious | Listless or uninterested; may become agitated |
| Physical Health | Often linked to acute (sudden) illness | Often other health conditions are present |
About Dementia
- A chronic (ongoing) condition that progresses over time
- Affects thinking, memory, and daily functioning
- Caused by conditions like Alzheimer's, Vascular Dementia, and Lewy Body Disease
- Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting quality of life
About Delirium
- A temporary condition that develops suddenly
- Symptoms can fluctuate (change) in severity
- Can last hours, days, or weeks
- Often triggered by medical conditions or medications
- Usually improves when the underlying cause is treated