Delirium and Dementia: Clearing the Fog of Misunderstanding

In this special episode of the Dementia Researcher Podcast, Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali is joined by Dr Ahmad Khundakar (Teesside University), Anna Wilson (South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust), and Professor Mani Santhana Krishnan (Tees, Esk and Wear Valleys NHS Foundation Trust) to explore the complex and often misunderstood relationship between delirium and dementia. The conversation examines how these conditions overlap, why they’re frequently confused, and the consequences of misdiagnosis, particularly in hospital and care settings. Drawing on academic research, clinical practice, and personal experience, the guests discuss how delirium presents, the tools used to detect it, and what needs to change to improve care and outcomes. Listen to this podcast to learn about subtypes like hypoactive delirium, hear real-world examples of how family involvement can make a difference, and discover why non-drug interventions are so important. This episode is an essential listen for anyone working in dementia care or research, as well as for caregivers and families. -- For guest biographies, a full transcript and much more visit: https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk - Like what you hear? Please review, like, and share our podcast, and don't forget to subscribe to ensure you never miss an episode. If you prefer to watch rather than listen, check out the video version in Spotify, YouTube or on our website. -- This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support. -- Follow us on social media: https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/ https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/ https://www.twitter.com/demrescommunity https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social Download our new community app: https://onelink.to/dementiaresearcher