Which delirium subtype is associated with lethargy and slow speech and is described as more common?

Which delirium subtype is associated with lethargy and slow speech and is described as more common?

• A. Hypoactive delirium
• B. Mixed delirium
• C. Hyperactive delirium
• D. Subsyndromal delirium

Answer: (A)

Delirium subtypes differ by level of arousal and psychomotor activity. Lethargy and slow speech reflect decreased arousal and psychomotor retardation, which define hypoactive delirium. This form is reported as the most common presentation in older adults, especially in hospital or postoperative settings, yet it’s often missed because it can resemble depression or dementia. In contrast, hyperactive delirium shows agitation and restlessness, mixed delirium alternates between hypo- and hyperactive states, and subsyndromal delirium involves milder symptoms that don’t meet full delirium criteria. So the described lethargy and slow speech fit hypoactive delirium, the more common presentation in this population.

Delirium subtypes differ by level of arousal and psychomotor activity. Lethargy and slow speech reflect decreased arousal and psychomotor retardation, which define hypoactive delirium. This form is reported as the most common presentation in older adults, especially in hospital or postoperative settings, yet it’s often missed because it can resemble depression or dementia. In contrast, hyperactive delirium shows agitation and restlessness, mixed delirium alternates between hypo- and hyperactive states, and subsyndromal delirium involves milder symptoms that don’t meet full delirium criteria. So the described lethargy and slow speech fit hypoactive delirium, the more common presentation in this population.