Which of the following are listed as risk factors for delirium?

• A. Malnutrition, UTI, sleep deprivation, immobility
• B. Hyperglycemia
• C. Dehydration
• D. Sedentary lifestyle

Answer: (D)

Delirium risk increases when an older adult has reduced physiologic reserve and is exposed to factors that disrupt brain function. A sedentary lifestyle contributes to this vulnerability because inactivity leads to immobility, which sets off a chain of problems that heighten delirium risk. Less movement can result in poorer circulation, deconditioning, and slower recovery; it’s also associated with inadequate hydration and nutrition, disrupted sleep, constipation, and a higher likelihood of infections. Each of these issues is a known precipitating factor for delirium, so a general pattern of sedentary behavior effectively captures multiple pathways that raise risk.

While dehydration, infections such as a urinary tract infection, and sleep deprivation are also linked to delirium, a sedentary lifestyle represents a broader, modifiable pattern that underlies several individual risk factors. Hyperglycemia can contribute to confusion, but it’s not as consistently listed as a primary delirium risk factor as inactivity and related issues.