Geriatrics focuses on function, which is broadly defined and includes physical, cognitive, psychologic, and social aspects. The scope of assessment of any individual depends on the site of care, the patient’s level of frailty, time constraints, and the availability of the multidisciplinary healthcare team. The following are questions you can ask your health care provider about geriatric assessment, and what you should expect.
- What is a comprehensive geriatric assessment? Do I need one?
- Are there medical tests that I should have done?
- Are there other problems that might be making it difficult for me to take care of myself, like poor nutrition, vision or hearing problems? How should we check for these problems?
- How can I be sure that I am able to safely take care of myself at home?
- If I need help, are there resources available to me to help take care of my personal care needs at home?
- Is there someone else, like a social worker or other professional, who might be able to give me more information on resources to help with personal care needs?
- How do I make sure that my home is as safe as possible?
- Do you think there might be a memory or mood problem making it more difficult for me to take care of myself?
- Is it safe for me to drive? Is there a professional or program I can see to determine if I can still drive safely? Is there a training program might make me a safer driver?
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