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In addition to mental and physical fatigue, an acute change in the living environment within the shelter may cause a transient brain dysfunction (such as mental agitation, unclear speech, sleep disorder and forgetfulness), the symptoms of which can be mistaken for dementia.
In elderly in the shelter, delirium can be differentiated from dementia using the following checklist. An accurate coping strategy is necessary.
Points differentiating delirium from dementia
| 1. |
Presence of disorientation and forgetfulness |
| 2. |
Acute onset of symptoms and marked symptoms particularly in the evening and night |
| 3. |
Transient symptoms showing intra-day fluctuations |
| 4. |
Acute changes in mental state and feelings |
| 5. |
Inadequate sleep during night |
Coping methods
| 1. |
Secure places in the shelter where there is a clear distinction between the day and night, and where others are present nearby, allowing personal exchanges |
| 2. |
Facilitate activity during the daytime (such as taking a walk around the shelter, light exercise, etc.. |
| 3. |
Remove dangerous objects and carry out rounds of the shelter at night |
| 4. |
Accept and take a gentle approach towards perplexed and disquieted states in the elderly |
| 5. |
Make arrangements for visits to or by psychiatrists and give oral medication according to their instructions |
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Risk of developing delirium
