Comprehensive geriatric assessment

Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) is a multidimensional, multidisciplinary diagnostic process used to determine the medical, psychological, and functional capabilities of an elderly person in order to develop a coordinated and integrated plan for treatment and follow-up.

Overview

The Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) is a process that evaluates an elderly person's functional ability, physical health, cognition and mental health, and socio-environmental circumstances. It is used to identify problems, to determine the medical conditions that could be causing the problems, and to formulate a treatment plan.

Components

The CGA includes assessments of the following areas:

• Physical health: This includes a complete medical history and physical examination, as well as a review of the person's medications.

• Functional ability: This involves evaluating the person's ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, eating, and using the toilet.

• Cognition and mental health: This includes assessments of memory, orientation, depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

• Socio-environmental circumstances: This involves evaluating the person's living conditions and social support network.

Benefits

The CGA can help to improve the person's physical health, mental health, functional ability, and quality of life. It can also help to reduce hospital admissions and long-term care placement.

Limitations

The CGA is time-consuming and requires a multidisciplinary team, which can be a challenge in some healthcare settings. In addition, it may not be suitable for all elderly people, such as those with severe dementia or terminal illness.

See also

• Geriatrics
• Geriatric medicine
• Activities of daily living
• Mental health