range from 6% to 56% in general hospital populations. Delirium occurs in 15%–53% of
older individuals postoperatively and in 70% –87% of those in intensive care. Delirium oc-
curs in up to 60% of individuals in nursing ho mes or post–acute care settings and in up to
83% of all individuals at the end of life.
Development and Course
While the majority of individuals with deli rium have a full recovery with or without
treatment, early recognition and intervention usually shortens the duration of the delir-