International psychogeriatrics
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Phenomenological differences between delirium superimposed on dementia (DsD) versus delirium in the absence of dementia (DaD) remain poorly understood. We aimed to identify phenomenological differences in delirium symptoms (cognitive and non-cognitive) and compare delirium recovery trajectories between DsD and DaD. ⋯ Our findings of slower cognitive symptom recovery in DsD patients suggest cognitive reserve play a role in delirium syndrome development and recovery. This merits further studies to potentially aid in appropriate discharge planning and to identify potential pharmacological and non-pharmacological cognitive interventions for hospitalized older persons with delirium.