Relationship between delirium and depression in old age

Abstract

Depression is the most prevalent affective syndrome in old age. Delirium is a common and serious adverse event in elderly patients and is associated with significant cognitive and functional decline and early institutionalisation. Both disorders have shared symptoms and signs. Recent studies suggest that depression is an independent risk factor for delirium, and depression symptoms may also represent sequels of delirium. It is important to identify patients at risk of delirium, in order to apply preventive strategies and to address the consequences of incident delirium. In this narrative review we discuss the complex relationship between depression and delirium in old age.