The overlap syndrome of depression and delirium in older hospitalized patients

Associations between depression symptom burden and delirium risk: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Delirium and depression are increasingly common in aging. There is considerable clinical overlap, including shared symptoms and comorbid conditions, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), functional decline, and mortality. Despite this, the long-term relationship between depression and delirium remains unclear. This study assessed the associations of depression symptom burden and its trajectory with delirium risk in a 12-year prospective study of older individuals during hospitalization.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

319,141 UK biobank participants between 2006-2010 (mean 58y [range 37-74, SD=8], 54% female) reported frequency (0-3) of four depressive symptoms (mood, disinterest, tenseness, or lethargy) in the preceding 2 weeks, and aggregated into a depressive symptom burden score (0-12). New-onset delirium was obtained from hospitalization records during 12y median follow-up. 40,451 (mean age 57±8; range 40-74y) had repeat assessment on average 8y after their first. Cox proportional hazard models examined whether depression symptom burden and trajectory predicted incident delirium during hospitalization.

RESULTS

5,753 (15 per 1000) newly developed delirium during follow-up. Increased risk for delirium was seen for mild (aggregated scores 1-2, hazards ratio, HR=1.16, [95% confidence interval 1.08-1.25], p<0.001), modest (scores 3-5, 1.30 [1.19-1.43], p<0.001) and severe (scores ≥ 5, 1.38 [1.24-1.55], p<0.001) depressive symptoms, versus none in the fully adjusted model. These findings were independent of the number of hospitalizations and consistent across hospitalization settings (e.g., surgical, medical, or critical care) and specialty (e.g., neuropsychiatric, cardiorespiratory or other). Worsening depression symptoms (≥1 point increase), compared to no change/improved score, were associated with an additional 39% increased risk (1.39 [1.03-1.88], p=0.03) independent of baseline depression burden. The association was strongest in those over 65y at baseline (p for interaction <0.001).

DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS

Depression symptom burden and worsening trajectory predicted delirium risk during hospitalization. Increased awareness of subclinical depression symptoms may be warranted for delirium prevention.

Association of Delirium and Depression with Respiratory and Outcome Measures in COVID-19 Inpatients

Delirium (DEL) and depression (DEP) may impair the course and severity of acute respiratory illness. The impact of such syndromes on respiratory and outcome parameters in inpatients with COVID-19 needs clarification. To clarify the relationship between DEL and DEP and respiratory outcome measures, we enrolled 100 inpatients from COVID-19 units of the Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS of Rome. Participants were divided into those with DEL, DEP, or absence of either delirium or depression (CONT). Delirium severity was assessed with the Neelson and Champagne Confusion Scale (NEECHAM). Psychopathology was assessed with the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D), the Hamilton Rating Scale for Anxiety (HAM-A), and the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS). Dependent variables include: (a) respiratory parameters, i.e., partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood (PaO2), oxygen saturation (SpO2), ratio between arterial partial pressure of oxygen (PaO2), and fraction of inspired oxygen (PaO2/FiO2); (b) outcome parameters, i.e., duration of hospitalization and number of pharmacological treatments used during the hospitalization. We investigated between-group differences and the relationships between severity of delirium/depression and the dependent variables. Duration of hospitalization was longer for DEL than for either DEP or CONT and for DEP compared to CONT. NEECHAM and HAM-D scores predicted lower PaO2 and PaO2/FiO2 levels in the DEL and DEP groups, respectively. In DEP, BPRS scores positively correlated with duration of hospitalization. Delirium impacted the course of COVID-19 more severely than depression. The mechanisms by which delirium and depression worsen respiratory parameters differ.

Predictors of hospital readmission for patients diagnosed with delirium: An electronic health record data analysis

INTRODUCTION

Delirium is an acute and fluctuating change in attention and cognition that increases the risk of functional decline, institutionalisation and death in hospitalised patients. After delirium, patients have a significantly higher risk of readmission to hospital. Our aim was to investigate factors associated with hospital readmission in people with delirium.

METHODS

We carried out an observational retrospective cohort study using linked mental health care and hospitalisation records from South London. Logistic regression models were used to predict the odds of 30-day readmission and Cox proportional hazard models to calculate readmission risks when not restricting follow-up time.

RESULTS

Of 2814 patients (mean age 78.9 years SD ±11.8) discharged from hospital after an episode of delirium, 823 (29.3%) were readmitted within 30 days. Depressed mood (odds ratio (OR) 1.34 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.08-1.66)), moderate-to-severe physical health problems (OR 1.67 (95% CI 1.18-2.2.36)) and a history of serious circulatory disease (OR 1.29 (95% CI 1.07-1.55)) were associated with higher odds of hospital readmission, whereas a diagnosis of delirium superimposed on dementia (OR 0.67 (95% CI 0.53-0.84)) and problematic alcohol/substance (OR 0.54 (95% CI 0.33-0.89)) use were associated with lower odds. Cox proportionate hazard models showed similar results.

CONCLUSION

Almost one-third of patients with delirium were readmitted within a short period of time, a more detailed understanding of the underlying risk factors could help prevent readmissions. Our findings indicate that the aetiology (as alcohol-related delirium), the recognition that delirium occurred in the context of dementia, as well as potentially modifiable factors, as depressed mood affect readmission risk, and should be assessed in clinical settings.

Incidence, predictors and health outcomes of delirium in very old hospitalized patients: a prospective cohort study

Background

Delirium is a common complication that leads to poor health outcomes in older patients undergoing treatment. Due to severe consequences, early recognition of high-risk patients and risk factors for delirium are crucial in the prompt initiation of prevention measures. However, research in medically hospitalized patients aged ≥80 years remains limited. This study aimed to determine the incidence, predictors and health outcomes of delirium in very old (aged ≥80 years) hospitalized patients in China.

Methods

A prospective study was conducted in individuals aged ≥80 years admitted to geriatric departments. Potential risk factors were assessed within 24 h after hospital admission. Screening for delirium was performed on admission and every 48 h thereafter for 14 days and assessed if acute mental status changes were observed. During hospitalization, health outcomes were recorded daily.

Results

Incident delirium occurred in 109 of 637 very old hospitalized patients (17.1%). The independent predictors of delirium in hospitalized patients aged 80 and over were cognitive function impairment [OR 17.42, 95% CI:(7.47–40.64)], depression [OR 9.30, 95% CI: (4.59–18.84)], CCI ≥ 5 [OR 4.21, 95% CI: (1.48–12.01)], sleep deprivation [OR 3.89, 95% CI: (1.71–8.82)], infection [OR 3.33, 95% CI: (1.70–6.54)], polypharmacy (≥5 medications) [OR 2.85, 95% CI: (1.51–5.39)], constipation [OR 2.58, 95% CI: (1.33–5.02)], and emergency admission [OR 2.13, 95% CI: (1.02–4.45)]. Patients with delirium had significantly longer hospital stays(P < 0.001) and higher percentages of physical restraint use(P < 0.001) and falls (P = 0.001) than those without delirium,.

Conclusion

The incidence of delirium was high in hospitalized patients aged ≥80 years admitted to the geriatric department and was associated with prolonged hospital stay and higher rates of physical restraint use and falls. In this population, the most important independent risk factors for incident delirium were cognitive function impairment and depression. Health care professionals should recognize and initiate interventions for delirium early in geriatric patients.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-022-02932-9.

A framework of social determinants of health for delirium tailored to older adults

Delirium is a debilitating medical condition that disproportionately affects hospitalized older adults and is associated with adverse health outcomes, increased mortality, and high medical costs. Efforts to understand delirium risk in hospitalized older adults have focused on examining medical comorbidities, pre-existing cognitive deficits, and other clinical and demographic factors present in the period proximate to the hospitalization. The contribution of social determinants of health (SDOH), including social circumstances, environmental characteristics, and early-life exposures, referred as the social exposome, to delirium risk is poorly understood. Increased knowledge about the influence of SDOH will offer a more comprehensive understanding of factors that may increase vulnerability to delirium and poor outcomes. Clinically, these efforts can guide the development and implementation of holistic preventive strategies to improve clinical outcomes. We propose a SDOH framework for delirium adapted for older adults. We provide the definition, description, and rationale for the domains and variables in our proposed model.

Depression and anxiety increase the odds of developing delirium in ICU patients; a prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Delirium is prevalent among hospitalised patients, especially in critically ill patients. Preventing delirium by recognising its modifiable risk factors could improve life quality, decrease mortality and restrain its devastating consequences.

METHOD

We investigated 50 patients who had been hospitalised in the general ICU and monitored them for developing delirium. We employed CAM and CAM-ICU Scales to assess delirium, RASS score to determine the consciousness level, HADS questionnaire for anxiety and depression, and the demographic data questionnaire.

RESULTS

We found that 20% of ICU patients developed delirium and found a meaningful correlation between the incident delirium, older ages, visual impairment, and higher anxiety and depression scores (HADS) of first and second days of hospitalisation. By utilising logistic regression, we found that older ages, visual impairment, higher anxiety and depression scores (HADS) of the first day of hospitalisation were statistically significant to predict the risk model of developing delirium.

CONCLUSION

Depressive and anxiety symptoms were associated with higher odds of transitioning to delirium; so, at the admission time, it may be useful to screen patients for the symptoms of affective disorders, particularly, who are at higher risks for developing delirium.

Effects of a nurse–occupational therapist meeting on function and motivation in hospitalized elderly patients: A pilot randomized control trial

Introduction

This pilot randomized controlled trial assessed the effectiveness of a nurse–occupational therapist meeting on improving motor and social-cognitive functions, as well as motivation, in a subacute hospital setting.

Methods

Participants were randomized to a weekly multidisciplinary team meeting group (‘control’, n = 20) or a nurse–occupational therapist meeting group (‘intervention’, n = 18). Medical care plans in both groups were discussed in the weekly meeting. In addition, the details of daily life problems for the intervention patients were discussed in the nurse–occupational therapist meeting. Outcome measures included motor and social-cognitive functions assessed by the Functional Independence Measure and motivation assessed by the Vitality Index. Assessment time points were at admission and discharge.

Results

In the intervention group, additional improvements were found in the Functional Independence Measure cognitive ( p = 0.048, r = 0.32) and the Vitality Index ( p = 0.027, r = 0.36), whereas the Functional Independence Measure motor was improved in both groups ( p ≤ 0.018, r ≥ 0.52).

Conclusion

We found significant improvement in motor function in both groups and additional improvements in social-cognitive function and motivation in the intervention group. These observations suggest that collaborative practice between nurses and occupational therapists could improve functions underlying independent daily life in hospitalized elderly patients.

The health impacts of preventive cardiovascular medication reduction on older populations: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Polypharmacy is inevitable and appropriate for many conditions, but in some cases, it can be problematic resulting in an increased risk of harm and reduced quality of life. There has been an increasing interest to reduce cardioprotective medications in older adults to potentially reduce the risk of harm due to treatment; however, there is no evidence on safety and efficacy to support this practice currently. This paper describes a protocol for a systematic review on the safety and efficacy of reducing cardioprotective medication in older populations.

METHODS

MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase (Ovid), and CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) will be searched from their inception onwards for relevant studies. Randomised controlled trials and non-randomised studies on interventions (prospective, retrospective cohort, case-control) conducted in older adults (75 years or older) examining reduction of cardioprotective medications will be included. The primary outcome of this study will be all-cause hospitalisation. Secondary outcome variables of interest are all-cause hospitalisation, mortality, quality of life, serious adverse events, major adverse cardiovascular events, falls, fractures, cognitive functioning, bleeding events, renal functioning, medication burden, drug reinstatement, time-in-hospital, and frailty status. Two reviewers will independently screen all citations, full-text articles, and extract data. Confidence in cumulative evidence will be assessed using the GRADE approach; the risk of bias will be assessed by the RoB-II tool for randomised controlled studies and ROBINS-I for non-randomised studies. Where sufficient data are available, we will conduct a random effects meta-analysis by combining the outcomes of the included studies. Sub-group analysis and meta-regression are planned to assess the potential harms and risks of different drug classes and the impacts in different patient populations (e.g. sex, cognitive status, renal status, and age).

DISCUSSION

The study will be a comprehensive review on all published articles identified using our search strategy on the safety and efficacy of cardioprotective medication reduction in the older population. The findings will be crucial to inform clinicians on potential health outcomes of reducing cardiovascular medication in the elderly.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42020208223.

Impaired Executive Function and Depression as Independent Risk Factors for Reported Delirium Symptoms: An Observational Cohort Study Over 8 Years

Background

Acute medical illnesses, surgical interventions, or admissions to hospital in older individuals are frequently associated with a delirium. In this cohort study, we investigated the impact of specific cognitive domains and depression before the occurrence of delirium symptoms in an 8-year observation of older non-hospitalized individuals.

Methods

In total, we included 807 participants (48–83 years). Deficits in specific cognitive domains were measured using the CERAD test battery, and depressive symptoms were measured using Beck Depression Inventory and the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) before the onset of a delirium. Delirium symptoms were retrospectively assessed by a questionnaire based on the established Nursing Delirium Screening Scale.

Results

Fifty-eight of eight hundred seven participants (7.2%) reported delirium symptoms over the 8-year course of the study. Sixty-nine percent (n = 40) of reported delirium symptoms were related to surgeries. In multivariate regression analysis, impaired executive function was an independent risk factor (p = 0.034) for the occurrence of delirium symptoms. Furthermore, age (p = 0.014), comorbidities [captured by the Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI)] (p < 0.001), and depression (p = 0.012) were significantly associated with reported delirium symptoms.

Conclusion

Especially prior to elective surgery or medical interventions, screening for impaired executive function and depression could be helpful to identify patients who are at risk to develop delirium symptoms.

Disparities in Physical and Psychological Symptoms in Hospitalized African American and White Persons with Dementia

Objectives: This study examined differences in physical function, delirium, depressive symptoms, and behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) in hospitalized African American and white older adults with dementia. Methods: This secondary data analysis using baseline data from an ongoing trial testing family-centered function-focused care included African American (n = 159) and white persons (n =135) with dementia. Results: A multivariate analysis of covariance showed that controlling for relevant demographic and health characteristics, African Americans with dementia had lower physical function, more delirium, and more depressive symptoms upon admission than white participants. There were no significant differences in BPSD between African American and white persons. Discussion: To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine racial differences in admission symptoms of hospitalized persons with dementia. While the findings are preliminary, they can be used to inform the design of future research, including identifying the causes of disparities.

Functional decline in geriatric rehabilitation ward; is it ascribable to hospital acquired infection? A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

In some European countries, including France, older patients with functional decline in acute units are transferred to geriatric rehabilitation units. Some patients may not benefit from their stay in a geriatric rehabilitation unit and paradoxically worsened their functional status. Previous prognostic models of functional decline are based on only baseline parameters. However, some events can occur during rehabilitation and modify the association between baseline parameters and rehabilitation performance such as heart failure episode, falls or hospital-acquired infection (HAI). The incidence of functional decline in these units and factors associated with this decline have not been clearly identified.

METHODS

We used a prospective cohort of consecutive patients aged ≥75 years admitted to a geriatric rehabilitation unit in a French university hospital. The main endpoint was functional decline defined by at least an one-point decrease in Activities of Daily Living (ADL) score during the stay. Baseline social and geriatric characteristics were recorded and comorbidities were sought by the Cumulative Illness Rating Scale for Geriatrics (CIRS-G). During follow-up, hospital-acquired infection (HAI) was recorded, as was ADL score at discharge. Multivariate logistic regression and mediation analyses were used to identify factors associated with ADL decrease.

RESULTS

Among the 252 eligible patients, 160 (median age 84 years [interquartile range (IQR) 80-88] had available ADL scores at baseline (median score 7 [IQR 4-10]) and at discharge (median 9 [6-12]). Median CIRS-G score was 11 [8-13], 23 (14%) had a pulmonary HAI; 28 (17.5%) showed functional decline. On multivariable analysis, functional decline was associated with comorbidities (global CIRS-G score, P = 0.02, CIRS-G for respiratory disease [CIRS-G-R] ≥2, P = 0.02, or psychiatric disease, P = 0.02) and albumin level < 35 g/l (p = 0.03). Significant associations were found between functional decline and CIRS-G-R (OR 3.07 [95%CI 1.27-7.41], p = 0.01), between functional decline and pulmonary HAI (OR 3.12 [1.17-8.32],p = 0.02), and between CIRS-G-R and pulmonary HAI (OR 12.9[4.4-37.7], p = 0.0001). Theses associations and the reduced effect of CIRS-G-R on functional decline after adjusting for pulmonary HAI (OR 2.26 [0.83-6.16], p = 0.11) suggested partial mediation of pulmonary HAI in the relation between CIRS-G-R and functional decline.

CONCLUSION

Baseline comorbidities were independently associated with functional decline in patients hospitalized in a geriatric rehabilitation unit. Pulmonary HAI may have mediated this association. We need to better identify patients at risk of functional decline before transfer to a rehabilitation unit and to test the implementation of modern and individual programs of rehabilitation outside the hospital for these patients.

Preoperative Depression and Plasma Cortisol Levels as Predictors of Delirium after Cardiac Surgery

BACKGROUND

Delirium is common in old patients who undergo cardiac surgery, and it is associated with adverse outcomes. The genesis of delirium is thought to be multi-factorial, but it is still not well understood. Symptoms of depression and elevated cortisol level have been described in some previous studies as factors associated with delirium, suggesting a shared pathophysiology.

AIMS

The objective of the present study was to determine whether preoperative depression symptoms and increased cortisol level represent risk factors for delirium after cardiac surgery.

METHODS

We performed a prospective cohort study in 183 patients aged >50 years undergoing elective cardiac surgery. The Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) was used to assess patients for depressive symptoms before surgery. Preoperative plasma cortisol levels were available in 145 participants. Delirium was diagnosed using the Confusion Assessment Method for Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU) during the first 7 days after surgery. Spearman correlation was used for correlations between GDS, Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Charlson comorbidity index, and age. Binary logistic regression was used to determine whether GDS and cortisol levels predict postoperative delirium.

RESULTS

Delirium occurred in 60 patients out of 183 (32.8%) included and lasted 2.3 days (SD 1.36). GDS was correlated with age (p = 0.001) and comorbidity index (p = 0.003) and inversely correlated with MMSE score (p < 0.001). Higher preoperative GDS scores were associated with incidence of delirium in the postoperative period (p = 0.002). The association was significant after controlling for age, MMSE score, history of stroke, and Charlson comorbidity index (p = 0.045). Preoperative cortisol level was not associated with the development of postoperative delirium.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that a higher preoperative depression score is associated with an increased risk of postoperative delirium. On the other hand, preoperative plasma cortisol level does not seem to be a predictor of delirium after surgery. Further studies are needed to determine the potential of preoperative depression treatment to prevent postoperative delirium.

Effects of depression, dementia and delirium on activities of daily living in elderly patients after discharge

Background

The three geriatric conditions, depression, dementia and delirium (3D’s), are common among hospitalized older patients and often lead to impairments of activities of daily living. The aim of this study is to explore the impact of depression, dementia and delirium on activities of daily living (ADLs) during and after hospitalization.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted between 2012 and 2013 in a tertiary medical center in Taiwan. Patients who aged over 65 years and admitted to the geriatric ward were invited to this study. Geriatric Depression Scale Short Form, Mini-Mental State and Confusion Assessment Method were used to identify patients with depression, dementia and delirium on admission, respectively. Barthel Index (BI) was used to evaluate patients’ functional status on admission, at discharge, 30-day, 90-day and 180-day after discharge. Generalized Estimating Equation (GEE) was used to calculate the associations between 3 D’s and BI.

Results

One-hundred-and-forty-nine patients were included in this study. Twenty-seven patients (18.1%) had depression, 37 (24.8%) had dementia, and 85 (57.0%) had delirium. The study demonstrated that all the geriatric patients with functional decline presented gradual improvements of physical function up to 180 days after discharge. Whether depression exists did not substantially affect functional recovery after discharge, whilst either dementia or delirium could impede elder people functional status. The recovery of functional improvement in delirium or dementia was relatively irreversible when comparing with depression. Once delirium or dementia was diagnosed, poorer functional restore was expected. In brief, intensive work and strategies on modifying delirium or dementia should be put more effort as early as possible.

Conclusions

Old hospitalized patients with depression can recover well after adequate intervention. We emphasize that early detection of dementia and delirium is imperative in subsequent functional outcome, even if at or before admission. Comprehensive plan must be implemented timely.

[Cognitive decline in geriatric oncology: Trends, evaluation and treatment]

Cancer prevalence increases with aging. Prevalent or incident neurocognitive disorders are frequent in geriatric oncology. Cognitive decline associated with cancer increases the risk of under or over-cancer treatment and makes therapeutic decisions complex. In this context, we present tools to optimize cognitive impairment screening, identification of underlying mechanisms and specific treatments. Geriatric specialists intervention can help global care, social services utilization and patient's orientation when ambulatory cares become difficult.

[The Confusion Assessment Method: Transcultural adaptation of a French version]

INTRODUCTION

The Confusion Assessment Method (CAM) is a validated key tool in clinical practice and research programs to diagnose delirium and assess its severity. There is no validated French version of the CAM training manual and coding guide (Inouye SK). The aim of this study was to establish a consensual French version of the CAM and its manual.

METHODS

Cross-cultural adaptation to achieve equivalence between the original version and a French adapted version of the CAM manual.

RESULTS

A rigorous process was conducted including control of cultural adequacy of the tool's components, double forward and back translations, reconciliation, expert committee review (including bilingual translators with different nationalities, a linguist, highly qualified clinicians, methodologists) and pretesting. A consensual French version of the CAM was achieved.

CONCLUSION

Implementation of the CAM French version in daily clinical practice will enable optimal diagnosis of delirium diagnosis and enhance communication between health professionals in French speaking countries. Validity and psychometric properties are being tested in a French multicenter cohort, opening up new perspectives for improved quality of care and research programs in French speaking countries.

Delirium in a residential care facility: An exploratory study of staff knowledge

OBJECTIVE

To explore staff knowledge of delirium by eliciting meaning through descriptions of their experiences within a residential aged care facility (RACF).

METHODS

Six staff from one RACF in Australia participated in this qualitative study. Semi-structured individual interviews were conducted and analysed using Colaizzi's analytical framework.

RESULTS

The analysis revealed four themes: (i) absence of the word delirium; (ii) care based on intuition and automated actions; (iii) reliance on teamwork; and (iv) confusing delirium, depression and dementia.

CONCLUSION

Delirium was absent from clinical discourse in the RACF. Although participants concluded that delirium was common, lack of knowledge led to under-assessment. Findings emphasise the need for staff education, informed assessment and clinical guidelines to better support staff care for residents.

Sundown syndrome and symptoms of anxiety and depression in hospitalized elderly

Sundown syndrome is characterized by the sudden appearance of neuropsychiatric symptoms such as agitation, confusion and anxiety in a chronologic fashion, usually during late afternoon or early evening.

Predicting outcome in older hospital patients with delirium: a systematic literature review

OBJECTIVE

Delirium is a serious neuropsychiatric syndrome common in older hospitalised adults. It is associated with poor outcomes, however not all people with delirium have poor outcomes and the risk factors for adverse outcomes within this group are not well described. The objective was to report which predictors of outcome had been reported in the literature.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review by an initial electronic database search of MEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO using four key search criteria. These were: (1) participants with a diagnosis of delirium, (2) clearly defined outcome measures, (3) a clearly defined variable as predictor of outcomes and (4) participants in the general hospital, rehabilitation and care home settings, excluding intensive care. Studies were then selected in a systematic fashion using specific predetermined criteria by three reviewers.

RESULTS

A total of 559 articles were screened, and 57 full text articles were assessed for eligibility. Twenty seven studies describing 18 different predictors of poor outcome were reported. The studies were rated by the Newcastle-Ottawa Score and were generally at low risk of bias. Four broad themes of predictor were identified; five delirium related predictors, two co-morbid psychiatric illness related predictors, eight patient related predictors and three biomarker related predictors. The most numerously described and clinically important appear to be the duration of the delirium episode, a hypoactive motor subtype, delirium severity and pre-existing psychiatric morbidity with dementia or depression. These are all associated with poorer delirium outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Important predictors of poor outcomes in patients with delirium have been demonstrated. These could be used in clinical practice to focus direct management and guide discussions regarding prognosis. These results also demonstrate a number of key unknowns, where further research to explore delirium prognosis is recommended and is vital to improve understanding and management of this condition.

Perceived autonomy support, psychological needs satisfaction, depressive symptoms and apathy in French hospitalized older people

Based on the self-determination theory, the aim of the present study was (1) to provide a better understanding of older people's psychological needs satisfaction in geriatric care units, then to link this information with depressive symptoms and apathy; (2) to examine whether the perceived autonomy support from health care professionals differs between needs satisfaction profiles; and (3) to investigate for all participants how each need satisfaction was related to depressive symptoms and apathy. Participants (N=100; Mage=83.33years, SD=7.78, 61% female) completed the measures of psychological needs satisfaction, perceived autonomy support, geriatric depression and apathy. Sociodemographic data were also collected. Cluster analyses showed three distinct profiles: one profile with low-moderate need satisfaction, one profile with high-moderate need satisfaction and one profile with high need satisfaction. These profiles are distinct, and did not differ in terms of participants' characteristics, except gender. Multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) revealed that participants with low-moderate need satisfaction profile have significantly higher level of depressive symptoms and apathy, and lower levels of perceived autonomy support than participants of the two other profiles. Moreover, for all participants, regression analyses revealed that both competence and relatedness needs satisfaction significantly and negatively explained 28% of the variance in depressive symptoms score and 44% of the variance in apathy score. Our results highlight the interest to examine more thoroughly the variables fostering autonomy-supportive environment in geriatric care units, and to deepen the relationship between competence and relatedness needs satisfaction and depressive symptoms and apathy.

Depressive Symptoms Before, During, and After Delirium: A Literature Review

BACKGROUND

Delirium and depression are often thought of as mutually exclusive conditions. However, several studies cite depression as a risk factor for delirium whereas others note that patients with delirium often manifest depressive symptoms. Whether these depressive symptoms persist after delirium resolves remains unclear.

OBJECTIVES

This article reviews published studies that have investigated the relationship between depression and delirium.

METHODS

Literature searches on PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, and PsycInfo were conducted using search criteria "delirium" AND "depress⁎" as keywords or MeSH terms.

RESULTS

Of 722 search results, 10 prospective cohort studies were identified for inclusion. These studies were categorized regarding the time of assessment for depressive symptoms. Included studies varied greatly (regarding their index population, their methods of assessment, and their timing of assessments). Of the studies, 3 involved patients undergoing hip fracture repair. They demonstrated more severe depressive symptoms both during delirium and after delirium ended. Conversely, the other studies did not find any statistically significant correlations between the 2 conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

The literature suggests a correlation between depression and delirium in patients with hip fracture. Whether other specific populations have higher comorbidity is unclear. Unfortunately, studies varied widely in their methods, precluding a meta-analysis. Nonetheless, our review provides a foundation for future research.

Predicting Functional Decline and Recovery for Residents in Veterans Affairs Nursing Homes

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

This article describes methods and accuracy of predicting change in activities of daily living (ADLs) for nursing home patients following hospitalization.

DESIGN AND METHODS

Electronic Health Record data for 5,595 residents of Veterans Affairs' (VAs') Community Living Centers (CLCs) aged 70 years and older were analyzed within the VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure. Data included diagnoses from 7,106 inpatient records, 21,318 functional status evaluations, and 69,140 inpatient diagnoses. The Barthel Index extracted from CLC's Minimum Data Set was used to assess ADLs loss and recovery. Patients' diagnoses on hospital admission, ADL status prior to hospitalization, age, and gender were used alone or in combination to predict ADL loss/gain following hospitalization. Area under the Receiver-Operator Curve (AUC) was used to report accuracy of predictions in short (14 days) and long-term (15-365 days) follow-up post-hospitalization.

RESULTS

Admissions fell into 7 distinct patterns of recovery and loss: early recovery 19%, delayed recovery 9%, delayed recovery after temporary decline 9%, early decline 29%, delayed decline 10%, delayed decline after temporary recovery 6%, and no change 18%. Models accurately predicted ADL's 14-day post-hospitalization (AUC for bathing 0.917, bladder 0.842, bowels 0.875, dressing 0.871, eating 0.867, grooming 0.902, toileting 0.882, transfer 0.852, and walking deficits was 0.882). Accuracy declined but remained relatively high when predicting 14-365 days post-hospitalization (AUC ranging from 0.798 to 0.875).

IMPLICATIONS

Predictive modeling may allow development of more personalized predictions of functional loss and recovery after hospitalization among nursing home patients.

Associations between Depressive Symptoms and 30-day Hospital Readmission among Older Adults

BACKGROUND

Hospital readmissions are common and costly. Our goal was to determine the association between depressive symptoms and readmission within 30 days following hospital discharge in older adults.

METHODS

We analyzed data from a study of 789 persons aged 65 years or older admitted to a 20-bed acute care for elders (ACE) hospital unit from May 2009 to July 2011. Depressive symptoms were recorded within 24-hours of admission to the hospital unit, using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies -Depression (CES-D) Scale. The primary outcome was readmission to hospital within 30 days of discharge.

RESULTS

The mean age was 77 years; 66% were female, 72% were White, and 59% were unmarried. On average, older patients reported 2.6 comorbid conditions. Sixteen percent were classified with high depressive symptoms (CES-D ≥ 16). The readmission rate within 30 days was 15%. Older patients with high depressive symptoms had more than 1.6 times the odds (OR 1.66; 95% CI: 1.01-2.74) of being readmitted within 30-days, as compared to those with low depressive symptoms (CES-D < 16), after adjustment for age, race/ethnicity, sex, marital status and comorbid conditions.

CONCLUSION

High depressive symptoms increased the risk of hospital readmission within 30 days of discharge after adjusting for relevant covariates. In-hospital screening for depressive symptoms may identify older persons at risk for recurrent hospital admissions.

Six-month outcomes of co-occurring delirium, depression, and dementia in long-term care

OBJECTIVES

To describe the 6-month outcomes of co-occurring delirium (full syndrome and subsyndromal symptoms), depression, and dementia in a long-term care (LTC) population.

DESIGN

Observational, prospective cohort study with 6-month follow-up conducted from 2005 to 2009.

SETTING

Seven LTC facilities in the province of Quebec, Canada.

PARTICIPANTS

Newly admitted and long-term residents recruited consecutively from lists of residents aged 65 and older admitted for LTC, with stratification into groups with and without severe cognitive impairment. The study sample comprised 274 residents with complete data at baseline on delirium, dementia, and depression.

MEASUREMENTS

Outcomes were 6-month mortality, functional decline (10-point decline from baseline on 100-point Barthel scale), and cognitive decline (3-point decline on 30-point Mini-Mental State Examination). Predictors included delirium (full syndrome or subsyndromal symptoms, using the Confusion Assessment Method), depression (Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia), and dementia (chart diagnosis).

RESULTS

The baseline prevalences of delirium, subsyndromal symptoms of delirium (SSD), depression, and dementia were 11%, 44%, 19%, and 66%, respectively. By 6 months, 10% of 274 had died, 19% of 233 had experienced functional decline, and 17% of 246 had experienced cognitive decline. An analysis using multivariable generalized linear models found the following significant interaction effects (P < .15): between depression and dementia for mortality, between delirium and depression for functional decline, and between SSD and dementia for cognitive decline.

CONCLUSION

Co-occurrence of delirium, SSD, depression, and dementia in LTC residents appears to affect some 6-month outcomes. Because of limited statistical power, it was not possible to draw conclusions about the effects of the co-occurrence of some syndromes on poorer outcomes.

Effect of the overlap syndrome of depressive symptoms and delirium on outcomes in elderly adults with hip fracture: a prospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

To analyze the incidence of the overlap syndrome of depressive symptoms and delirium, risk factors, and independent and dose-response effect of the overlap syndrome on outcomes in elderly adults with hip fracture.

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

University hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Individuals with hip fracture without delirium (N = 277; aged 78.0 ± 8.2) consequently enrolled in a prospective cohort study.

MEASUREMENTS

Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale and cognitive status using the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire upon hospital admission. Incident delirium was assessed daily during the hospital stay using the Confusion Assessment Method. Information on complications acquired in the hospital, severity of complications, re-interventions, length of hospital stay, and 1-month mortality was recorded.

RESULTS

Thirty (10.8%) participants had depressive symptoms alone, 88 (31.8%) delirium alone, 60 (21.7%) overlap syndrome, and 99 (35.7%) neither condition. According to multivariate regression analysis, participants with the overlap syndrome had significantly higher incidence of vision impairment (P = .02), longer time-to-surgery (P = .03), and lower cognitive function (P < .001) than participants with no depressive symptoms and no delirium. In the adjusted regression analysis, participants with neither condition were at lower risk of complications than those with the overlap syndrome (P = .03). After adjustment, participants with the overlap syndrome were at higher risk of longer hospital stay independently (P = .003) and in a dose-response manner in the following order: no depression and no delirium, depressive symptoms alone, delirium alone, and the overlap syndrome (P = .002).

CONCLUSION

Depressive symptoms and delirium increase the likelihood of adverse outcomes after hip fracture in a step-wise manner when they coexist. To reduce the risk of adverse outcome in individuals with hip fracture, efforts to identify, prevent, and treat this condition need to be increased.

EFFECT OF PREOPERATIVE PAIN AND DEPRESSIVE SYMPTOMS ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF POSTOPERATIVE DELIRIUM

BACKGROUND

Preoperative pain and depression predispose patients to delirium. Our goal was to determine whether pain and depressive symptoms interact to increase delirium risk.

METHODS

We enrolled 459 persons without dementia aged ≥70 years scheduled for elective orthopedic surgery. At baseline, participants reported their worst and average pain within seven days and current pain on a 0-10 scale. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale and chart. Delirium was assessed with the Confusion Assessment Method and chart. We examined the relationship between preoperative pain, depressive symptoms and delirium using multivariable analysis of pain and delirium stratified by presence of depressive symptoms.

FINDINGS

Delirium, occurring in 23% of the sample, was significantly higher in those with depressive symptoms at baseline than those without (relative risk, RR, 1·6, 95% confidence interval, CI, 1·2-2·3). Preoperative pain was associated with an increased adjusted risk for delirium across all pain measures (RR from 1·07-1·08 per point of pain). In stratified analyses, patients with depressive symptoms had a 21% increased risk for delirium for each one-point increase in worst pain score, demonstrating a significant interaction (P=0·049). Similarly, a significant 13% increased risk for delirium was demonstrated for a one-point increase in average pain score, but the interaction did not achieve statistical significance.

INTERPRETATION

Preoperative pain and depressive symptoms demonstrated increased risk for delirium independently and with substantial interaction, suggesting a cumulative impact. Thus, pain and depression are vulnerability factors for delirium that should be assessed before surgery.

FUNDING

U.S. National Institute on Aging.

Depressive symptoms and adverse outcomes from hospitalization in older adults: secondary outcomes of a trial of falls prevention education

Depression is common in older people and symptoms of depression are known to substantially increase during hospitalization. There is little known about predictors of depressive symptoms in older adults or impact of common interventions during hospitalization. This study aimed to describe the magnitude of depressive symptoms, shift of depressive symptoms and the impact of the symptoms of depression among older hospital patients during hospital admission and identify whether exposure to falls prevention education affected symptoms of depression. Participants (n=1206) were older adults admitted within two Australian hospitals, the majority of participants completed the Geriatric Depression Scale - Short Form (GDS) at admission (n=1168). Participants' mean age was 74.7 (±SD 11) years and 47% (n=551) were male. At admission 53% (619 out of 1168) of participants had symptoms of clinical depression and symptoms remained at the same level at discharge for 55% (543 out of 987). Those exposed to the low intensity education program had higher GDS scores at discharge than those in the control group (low intensity vs control n=652, adjusted regression coefficient (95% CI)=0.24 (0.02, 0.45), p=0.03). The only factor other than admission level of depression that affected depressive symptoms change was if the participant was worried about falling. Older patients frequently present with symptoms of clinical depression on admission to hospital. Future research should consider these factors, whether these are modifiable and whether treatment may influence outcomes.

Delirium and depression: inter-relationship and clinical overlap in elderly people

Delirium and depression are complex neuropsychiatric syndromes common in the elderly and are associated with poor health-care outcomes. Accurate diagnosis is essential to the provision of optimum health care for individuals with these conditions but is complicated by substantial clinical overlap in symptoms and comorbidities. A careful assessment of the patient's symptoms, including their context and time course, is needed for accurate diagnosis. Previous depression is common in patients with delirium and depressive illness is a recognised sequelae of delirium. The two syndromes seem to be caused by similar pathophysiological mechanisms, involving disturbances in stress and inflammatory responses, monoaminergic and melatonergic signalling, which point to new avenues for therapeutic intervention. Improved methods to assess delirium and depression in populations at high risk by virtue of their age, diminished cognitive reserve and physical frailty is a key target to achieve improved health-care outcomes in elderly individuals.

Delirium diagnostic and classification challenges in palliative care: subsyndromal delirium, comorbid delirium-dementia, and psychomotor subtypes

CONTEXT

Delirium often presents difficult diagnostic and classification challenges in palliative care settings.

OBJECTIVES

To review three major areas that create diagnostic and classification challenges in relation to delirium in palliative care: subsyndromal delirium (SSD), delirium in the context of comorbid dementia, and classification of psychomotor subtypes, and to identify knowledge gaps and research priorities in relation to these three areas of focus.

METHODS

We combined multidisciplinary input from delirium researchers and knowledge users at an international delirium study planning meeting and relevant PubMed literature searches as the knowledge synthesis strategy in this review.

RESULTS

We identified six (SSD), 33 (dementia), and 44 (psychomotor subtypes) articles of relevance in relation to the focus of our review. Recent literature data highlight the frequency and impact of SSD, the relevance of comorbid dementia, and the propensity for a hypoactive presentation of delirium in the palliative population. The differential diagnoses to consider are wide and include pain, fatigue, mood disturbance, psychoactive medication effects, and other causes for altered consciousness.

CONCLUSION

Challenges in the diagnosis and classification of delirium in people with advanced disease are compounded by the generalized disturbance of central nervous system function that occurs in the seriously ill, often with comorbid illness, including dementia. Further research is needed to delineate the pathophysiological and clinical associations of these presentations and thus inform therapeutic strategies. The expanding aged population and growing focus on dementia care in palliative care highlight the need to conduct this research.

Delirium superimposed on dementia strongly predicts worse outcomes in older rehabilitation inpatients

Objective

Delirium superimposed on dementia (DSD) is common in many settings. Nonetheless, little is known about the association between DSD and clinical outcomes. The study aim was to evaluate the association between DSD and related adverse outcomes at discharge from rehabilitation and at 1-year follow-up in older inpatients undergoing rehabilitation.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Hospital rehabilitation unit.

Participants

A total of 2642 patients aged 65 years or older admitted between January 2002 and December 2006.

Measurements

Dementia predating rehabilitation admission was detected by DSM-III-R criteria. Delirium was diagnosed with the DSM-IV-TR. The primary outcome was that of walking dependence (Barthel Index mobility subitem score of <15) captured as a trajectory from discharge to 1-year follow-up. A mixed-effects multivariate logistic regression model was used to analyze the association between DSD and outcome, after adjusting for relevant covariates. Secondary outcomes were institutionalization and mortality at 1-year follow-up, and logistic regression models were used to analyze these associations.

Results

The median age was 77 years (interquartile range: 71–83). The prevalence of DSD was 8%, and the prevalence of delirium and dementia alone were 4% and 22%, respectively. DSD at admission was found to be significantly associated with almost a 15-fold increase in the odds of walking dependence (odds ratio [OR] 15.5; 95% Confidence Interval [CI] 5.6–42.7; P < .01). DSD was also significantly associated with a fivefold increase in the risk of institutionalization (OR 5.0; 95% CI 2.8–8.9; P < .01) and an almost twofold increase in the risk of mortality (OR 1.8; 95% CI 1.1–2.8; P = .01).

Conclusions

DSD is a strong predictor of functional dependence, institutionalization, and mortality in older patients admitted to a rehabilitation setting, suggesting that strategies to detect DSD routinely in practice should be developed and DSD should be included in prognostic models of health care.

Delirium is a risk factor for institutionalization and functional decline in older hip fracture patients

OBJECTIVES

The risk of institutionalization and functional decline is substantial after a hip fracture. However, previous research has not established the extent to which delirium plays a contributory role.

METHODS

Using a prospective design, we studied 207 hip fracture patients aged 65 and older, home-dwelling before the fracture. Patients were screened daily for delirium using the Confusion Assessment Method. Proxy information on pre-fracture cognitive function and function in activities of daily living (ADL) was obtained using the Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline in the Elderly, 16-item version, and the Barthel ADL Index. After 6months, the patients' functions in ADL measured by the Barthel ADL Index and place of living were registered.

RESULTS

Delirium was present in 80 patients (39%) during the hospital stay. After 6months, 33 (16%) were institutionalized. Delirium and lower Barthel ADL Index score were the main risk factors for institutionalization with an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 5.50 (95% CI=1.77-17.11) and 0.54 (95% CI=0.40-0.74) respectively. In patients able to return to their private home, the independent risk factors for functional decline were higher age (B=0.053, 95% CI=0.003-0.102) and delirium (B=0.768, 95% CI=0.039-1.497).

CONCLUSIONS

At 6month follow-up, delirium constitutes an independent risk factor for institutionalization and functional decline in hip fracture patients living at home prior to the fracture.

A Model of Risk Reduction for Older Adults Vulnerable to Nursing Home Placement

Because of the cost of nursing home care and desire of older adults to stay in their homes, it is important for health care providers to understand the factors that place older adults at risk for nursing home placement. This integrative review of 12 years of research, as published in 148 articles, explores the risk factors for nursing home placement of older adults. Using the framework of the vulnerable populations conceptual model developed by Flaskerud and Winslow (1998), we explored factors related to resource availability, relative risks, and health status. Important factors include socioeconomic status, having a caregiver, the availability and use of home- and community-based support services, race, acute illness particularly if hospitalization is required, medications, dementia, multiple chronic conditions, functional disability, and falls. Few intervention studies were identified. Development of evidence-based interventions and creation of policies to address modifiable risk factors are important next steps.

Six-month outcomes following an emergency hospital admission for older adults with co-morbid mental health problems indicate complexity of care needs

Background: two-thirds of older patients admitted as an emergency to a general hospital have co-existing mental health problems including delirium, dementia and depression. This study describes the outcomes of older adults with co-morbid mental health problems after an acute hospital admission.

Methods: a follow-up study of 250 patients aged over 70 admitted to 1 of 12 wards (geriatric, medical or orthopaedic) of an English acute general hospital with a co-morbid mental health problem and followed up at 180 days.

Results: twenty-seven per cent did not return to their original place of residence after the hospital admission. After 180 days 31% had died, 42% had been readmitted and 24% of community residents had moved to a care home. Only 31% survived without being readmitted or moving to a care home. However, 16% spent >170 of the 180 days at home. Significant predictors for poor outcomes were co-morbidity, nutrition, cognitive function, reduction in activities of daily living ability prior to admission, behavioural and psychiatric problems and depression. Only 42% of survivors recovered to their pre-acute illness level of function. Clinically significant behavioural and psychiatric symptoms were present at follow-up in 71% of survivors with baseline cognitive impairment, and new symptoms developed frequently in this group.

Conclusions: the variable, but often adverse, outcomes in this group implies a wide range of health and social care needs. Community and acute services to meet these needs should be anticipated and provided for.

Factors associated with depressive symptoms in older Taiwanese adults in a long-term care community

BACKGROUND

This study was to examine culturally based factors as potential predictors of depressive symptoms in older Taiwanese adults living in eight long-term care institutions in southern Taiwan.

METHOD

A cross-sectional, exploratory design study was used with a purposive sample of 156 participants with a mean age of 79.80 ± 7.14 years. Measurements included filial responsibility expectation questions, two questions about degrees of acceptance of institutionalization, Perceived Stress Scale, Self-Transcendence Scale, and Geriatric Depression Scale.

RESULTS

An elder's willingness to be institutionalized, an elder's willingness to remain institutionalized, perceived stress, and self-transcendence were significantly associated with depressive symptoms (r = -0.35; -0.49; 0.60; and -0.67, respectively). Although no evidence for the relationship between filial responsibility and depressive symptoms was found in this study, there was evidence that filial responsibility was highly valued. Self-transcendence was the strongest predictor of depressive symptoms, accounting for 45% of the variance.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide insight into the cultural factors associated with depressive symptoms and support the need of timely interventions for institutionalized Taiwanese elderly population.

Identifying modifiable factors to improve quality for older adults in hospital: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

Traditional ways of viewing hospitalisation do not always recognise how elements within the hospital environment contribute to disability. Four theoretical dimensions of older adult-hospital environment fit have been proposed in previous research on elder-friendly hospitals: social climate, physical design, care systems and processes, policies and procedures; however, modifiable factors for each dimension are not yet identified.

DESIGN

Exploratory iterative design guided by Arksey and O'Malley (2005, International Journal of Social Research Methodology 8, 19) scoping review methodology.

METHOD

We undertook a scoping review of primary research related to hospitalised community-dwelling older adults. Keys search terms and criteria were used to identify relevant articles with modifiable factors extracted from articles meeting study criteria.

RESULTS

A total of 66 studies were included and evaluated for modifiable factor mapping. We were able to map all 66 studies to the four dimensions. The majority of included studies described care systems and processes, with little relating to social climate, physical design and policies and procedures. Thirty-nine potentially modifiable factors were identified and mapped to the theoretical dimensions according to four overarching themes: models of care; assessment of potential geriatric issues; targeting care to a specific clinical issue and supporting transitions home themes.

CONCLUSION

The dimensions of older adult-hospital fit help us to organise key features of an elder-friendly hospital and identify potentially modifiable factors. Although it makes intuitive sense to cluster and organise according to the dimensions to help with understanding, this tells us little about the synergy of interactions and hierarchical relationships. Our results highlight the importance of competent gerontological nursing in care for hospitalised older adults and the need for further understanding of the older adult and family as a unit of care.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Registered nurses have a leadership role to ensure safe quality care for older people in hospital. This leadership role can be framed in interventions that focus on fixing the fit between what older people need and what the hospital environment provides. Modifiable factors for improvement are within the scope and competency of the registered nurse.

Testing the PHQ-9 interview and observational versions (PHQ-9 OV) for MDS 3.0

OBJECTIVES

To test the feasibility and validity of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 item interview (PHQ-9) and the newly developed Patient Health Questionnaire Observational Version (PHQ-9 OV) for screening for mood disorder in nursing home populations.

METHODS

The PHQ-9 was tested as part of the national Minimum Data Set 3.0 (MDS 3.0) evaluation study among 3822 residents scheduled for MDS 2.0 assessments. Residents from 71 community nursing homes (NHs) in eight states were randomly included in a feasibility sample (n = 3258) and a validation sample (n = 418). Each resident's ability to communicate determined whether the PHQ-9 interview or the PHQ-9 OV was initially attempted. In the validation sample, trained research nurses administered the instruments. For residents in the validation sample without severe cognitive impairment (3 MS ≥30) agreement between PHQ-9 and the modified Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia (m-SADS) was measured with weighted kappas (κ). For residents with severe cognitive impairment (3MS <30), agreement between PHQ-9 interview or PHQ-9 OV and the Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (Cornell Scale) was measured using correlation coefficients. Staff impressions were obtained from an anonymous survey mailed to all MDS assessors.

RESULTS

The PHQ-9 was completed in 86% of the 3258 residents in the feasibility sample. In the validation sample, the agreement between PHQ-9 and m-SADS was very good (weighted κ = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.61-0.76), whereas agreement between MDS 2.0 and m-SADS was poor (weighted κ = 0.15, 95% CI = 0.06-0.25). Likewise, in residents with severe cognitive impairment, PHQ correlations with the criterion standard Cornell Scale were superior to the MDS 2.0 for both the PHQ-9 (0.63 vs 0.34) and the PHQ-9 OV (0.84 vs 0.28). Eighty-six percent of survey respondents reported that the PHQ-9 provided new insight into residents' mood. The average time for completing the PHQ-9 interview was 4 minutes.

DISCUSSION

Compared with the MDS 2.0 observational items, the PHQ-9 interview had greater agreement with criterion standard diagnostic assessments. For residents who could not complete the interview, the PHQ-9 OV also had greater agreement with a criterion measure for depression than did the MDS 2.0 observational items. Moreover, the majority of NH residents were able to complete the PHQ-9, and most surveyed staff reported improved assessments with the new approach.

One-year mortality of elderly inpatients with delirium, dementia, or depression seen by a consultation-liaison service

BACKGROUND

Delirium, dementia and depression are the most prevalent mental disorders in elderly patients, and are associated with higher mortality.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess 1-year mortality among elderly patients with delirium, dementia, or depression seen by a psychiatry consultation-liaison service in a general hospital.

METHODS

We consecutively enrolled inpatients 65 years of age and older who were referred for psychiatric consultation (n = 614) from 2002 to 2006: 172 were diagnosed with delirium, 92 with dementia, and 165 with depression. The 1-year mortality rates for the three groups of patients were compared by log-rank test. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify any possible factors associated with mortality.

RESULTS

One-year mortality was significantly higher in the delirium group than in the depression group (p = 0.048), but not significantly different between the delirium and dementia groups (p = 0.206), or dementia and depression groups (p = 0.676). Male patients had a higher mortality rate than female patients in the depression group (p = 0.003), but there was no gender difference in the delirium and dementia groups. Furthermore, the 1-year mortality of all patients was significantly associated with older age (p < 0.001) and length of hospital stay (p < 0.001), but not with gender difference and multiple physical comorbidities.

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that elderly inpatients with delirium seen by a psychiatric consultation service have significantly higher mortality than elderly inpatients with depression, and that mortality is significantly associated with older age and length of hospital stay.

Prevalence and influence of psychiatric comorbidity on rehabilitation outcome for older hospital inpatients

BACKGROUND

The objectives of this study were to characterize the psychiatric comorbidity of a group of older subacute inpatients and then determine whether their psychiatric comorbidity affected measures of rehabilitation outcomes.

METHODS

Eighty-eight older subacute inpatients were recruited for this prospective study. Psychiatric comorbidity was defined according to a participants' performance on four inventory scales: the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), Geriatric Anxiety Inventory (GAI), Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale and Health of the Nation Outcome Scale 65+. Rehabilitation outcome referred to the participants' length of stay and their performance at discharge on the EuroQol-5D health-related quality of life questionnaire and Barthel index.

RESULTS

68% of the participants scored in the clinical range on at least one of the four scales assessing psychiatric comorbidity at admission, with 51% in the clinical range for GDS and 32% for the GAI. The decrease in scores by the time of discharge was significant for all four scales. Linear regression analyses pointed to a trend for depressive symptoms at admission to be an influential but nonsignificant predictor of rehabilitation outcome. An interesting association was found between the length of the previous acute admission and the GDS score on admission to the subacute unit.

CONCLUSION

A high prevalence of psychological symptoms was identified upon admission, with a significant decrease by the time of discharge. These factors did not significantly predict the selected measures of rehabilitation outcome. Opportunities for future longitudinal research on the prevalence and impact of psychiatric comorbidities on patient outcomes are considered.

Reducing "iatrogenic disability" in the hospitalized frail elderly

BACKGROUND

Hospitalization is the first cause of functional decline in the elderly: 30 to 60% of elderly patients lose some independence in basic activities of daily living (ADL) during a stay in hospital. This loss of independence results from the acute condition that led to admission, but is also related to the mode of management.

OBJECTIVE

This paper is a review of the literature on functional decline in elderly hospitalized patients. It is the first stage in a project aiming to prevent dependence that is induced during the course of care.

METHODS

During a 2-day workshop in Monaco, a task force of 20 international experts discussed and defined the concept of "iatrogenic disability".

RESULTS

1- "Iatrogenic disability" was defined by the task force as the avoidable dependence which often occurs during the course of care. It involves three components that interact and have a cumulative effect: a) the patient's pre-existing frailty, b) the severity of the disorder that led to the patient's admission, and lastly c) the hospital structure and the process of care. 2- The prevention of "iatrogenic disability" involves successive stages. - becoming aware that hospitalization may induce dependence. Epidemiological studies have identified at-risk populations by the use of composite scores (HARP, ISAR, SHERPA, COMPRI, etc). - considering that functional decline is not a fatality. Quality references have already been defined. Interventions to prevent dependence in targeted populations have been set up: simple geriatric consultation teams, single-factor interventions (aimed for example at mobility, delirium, iatrogenic disorders) or multidomain interventions (such as GEM and ACE units, HELP, Fast Track, NICHE). These interventions are essentially centered on the patient's frailty and have limited results, as they take little account of the way the institution functions, which is not aimed at prevention of functional decline. The process of care reveals shortcomings: lack of geriatric knowledge, inadequate evaluation and management of functional status. The group suggests that interventions must not only identify at-risk patients so that they may benefit from specialized management, but they must also target the hospital structure and the process of care. This requires a graded "quality approach" and rethinking of the organization of the hospital around the elderly person.