Delirium in the Elderly: Early Identification, Treatment and Interdisciplinary Approach

Delirium, according to DSM-5, is a syndrome characterized by a disturbance in attention and consciousness, which develops rapidly and is associated with underlying medical conditions, intoxication or withdrawal.Risk factors include preexisting neuropathologies, polypharmacy, infections, dehydration, immobility, hospitalizations, malnutrition, use of indwelling catheters, and advanced age.The integrative review, covering articles from 2014 to 2024 in Portuguese and English, was carried out in June 2024 through platforms such as PubMed, UpToDate and Google Scholar.Delirium in the elderly leads to prolonged hospitalizations, functional and cognitive decline, and increased mortality.Early identification and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.An interdisciplinary approach includes the management of psychomotor changes, pain control, adequate nutrition, improvement of mobility, prevention of skin lesions and pharmacological treatment when necessary.Non-pharmacological strategies such as normalizing the circadian rhythm and cognitive stimulation are essential for recovery.