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Is this dementia now?

Illustrated Story B26, with a text transcript.

Read story B26: Is this dementia now? (image and text)
Six-panel illustrated story, Is this dementia now? Jeanette, an older white woman, worries about memory after delirium. Her son asks whether dementia is certain. The doctor says the conditions are different, asks about her memory before illness, and discusses remaining difficulties. They agree assessment and follow-up rather than assuming a diagnosis. Footer: Delirium does not make a dementia diagnosis inevitable.

Delirium and dementia are different conditions, although they can occur together. Having delirium is linked with a higher risk of later problems with memory and thinking, but it does not make a future dementia diagnosis certain.

If memory or thinking difficulties remain, ask for a check by a doctor or nurse and further appointments. Information about the person’s abilities before the illness is useful. A new sudden change needs urgent help; longer-lasting concerns need a careful check by a doctor or nurse rather than assumptions about the diagnosis.

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Story text

  1. Panel 1. After delirium, Jeanette worries about her memory.

  2. Panel 2.

    • Simon: Does this mean dementia is certain?

  3. Panel 3.

    • Doctor: No. Delirium and dementia are different conditions.

  4. Panel 4.

    • Doctor: What was your memory like before the illness?

  5. Panel 5. They discuss the difficulties that remain.

  6. Panel 6.

    • Doctor: Let’s assess this and arrange follow-up.

Bottom band. Delirium does not make a dementia diagnosis inevitable.

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