Dementia is the umbrella term used to describe a range of cognitive and behavioural symptoms caused by the decline in brain function. It is a progressive condition, although this progression varies from person to person.
It’s estimated that around 676,000 people in England have dementia, and there are around 540,000 carers for people with the condition. Research indicates that approximately 25% of beds in hospitals are used in providing care for people living with dementia.
At Lister, we have on average 73 people with dementia in our hospital wards on any given day. An admission to hospital can increase the risk of delirium for people with dementia, which can contribute to functional decline, a longer length of stay in hospital and an increase in care needs.
Delirium
A sudden change in a persons mental state can be due to delirium. It could lead to increased confusion, disorientation or difficulty with concentration and can come on very quickly. It can be caused by infection, pain or dehydration. Once the cause is treated it will settle but can last from a few days to a few months. For more information please visit Dementia UK.
