Understanding the causes and effects of delirium in older adults

Delirium Dynamics: Understanding Causes and Effects

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11083115

This study is looking at how changes in sleep and daily rhythms might affect confusion and awareness in older adults with delirium, and it hopes to find new ways to help manage these symptoms.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-11083115 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates delirium, a condition that causes confusion and changes in awareness, particularly in older adults. It aims to understand how fluctuations in sleep patterns and circadian rhythms may influence the severity and duration of delirium symptoms. By using continuous monitoring tools, the study will track these changes in real-time to identify potential new treatments. The goal is to bridge the knowledge gap regarding the dynamic nature of delirium and its relationship with sleep disturbances.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are hospitalized adults aged 65 and older who are experiencing symptoms of delirium.

Not a fit: Patients under 21 years old or those without delirium symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for delirium, enhancing recovery and quality of life for older patients.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on delirium and sleep disturbances, this research employs novel continuous monitoring techniques, making it a potentially groundbreaking approach.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.