What non-pharmacological interventions are recommended for managing delirium in a primary care setting?

Correct precipitating factors such as infection, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, pain, and sensory impairment should be addressed. This includes treating infections, ensuring adequate hydration, managing pain appropriately, and optimizing sensory aids like spectacles and hearing aids ¹.

Provide a safe and familiar environment to support orientation and reduce confusion. This involves using clear signage, clocks, and calendars, and explaining the person's location and situation regularly ¹.

Encourage mobility and physical activity as tolerated, including walking with aids or active range-of-motion exercises if walking is not possible. This helps prevent immobility-related delirium ¹.

Normalize sleep-wake cycles by encouraging daytime bright light exposure, discouraging napping, and promoting uninterrupted sleep at night in a quiet, low-light environment ¹.

Offer cognitive stimulation and reassurance through regular reorientation, involving family and carers, and providing familiar objects and routines ¹.

Implement multicomponent interventions tailored to the individual’s needs, delivered by trained multidisciplinary teams, within 24 hours of assessment ³.