Zeitschrift für Gerontologie und Geriatrie
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Delirium, the acute deterioration of cognitive function and attention, is the most frequent mental disorder in elderly. Its correct diagnosis and adequate management are of crucial importance for the patient's health and functional outcome. ⋯ Causal therapy (i.e., treatment of the causal condition and/or eliminating the precipitating situation) is imperative. It must be accompanied by nursing and environmental measures and, if necessary, by antipsychotic and/or sedating symptomatic treatment.