The Interface Of Delirium And Dementia

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundWhile delirium and dementia are the most common causes of cognitive impairment in older populations, their interrelationship is complex and poorly understood. Dementia is the leading risk factor for delirium, and delirium is an independent risk factor for subsequent dementia. The current evidence for the inter‐relationship of delirium with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD) will be reviewed in detail.MethodsDr. Inouye will present an overview of the evidence of the inter‐relationship between delirium and AD/ADRD, including epidemiologic, clinicopathologic, biomarker and mechanistic evidence. Previous studies have shown that 2/3 of persons with ADRD will have at least one hospitalization each year, and 50% will have 2 or more; these hospitalizations are associated with a high risk of delirium. Emerging evidence provides strong support for shared and potentially synergistic pathophysiologic linkages between delirium and ADRD. Key questions to be addressed include: Does pre‐existing AD pathology increase vulnerability to delirium? Does delirium accelerate the pace of cognitive decline in those with AD and ADRD?Results and ConclusionsAt the conclusion of this presentation, participants should be able to:–Identify the key features of delirium and effective prevention strategies–Understand the contribution of delirium to worsened cognitive trajectories and outcomes in persons with and without dementia–Recognize potential shared pathophysiologic pathways between delirium and dementia–Appreciate that delirium represents an important preventable contributor to dementia