How might the built environment prevent or actively support people experiencing delirium?

Delirium is associated with significant adverse outcomes, including increased risk of death, falls, cognitive decline and extended hospital stays. Despite its impact, many hospitals lack design features that minimise the risk of delirium. Several environmental factors contribute to the onset and management of delirium in hospitals. Key elements include noise, lighting and the familiarity of the space. Excessive noise can disrupt sleep and exacerbate delirium symptoms. The sterile, unfamiliar nature of hospital environments often exacerbates patients' feelings of disorientation and vulnerability, further complicating delirium management. Healthcare professionals and caregivers emphasise the importance of the built environment in reducing the severity of delirium. Lighting, familiar environments, sensory stimulation and orientation aids are crucial in supporting patients. Architectural design modifications, including noise-reducing materials, dynamic lighting systems and more engaging, human-scaled interiors, can significantly impact patient outcomes. This report identifies four key recommendations to enhance the hospital environment for patients with delirium, as below. By integrating these recommendations into hospital design, healthcare facilities can create more supportive environments that not only enhance patient well-being but also potentially reduce the incidence and severity of delirium. Investing in thoughtful design strategies and advanced technological innovations is essential to adapt to the changing population and mitigate the long-term costs associated with delirium.