What is a comprehensive geriatric assessment?

A comprehensive geriatric assessment is characterized by a multidimensional evaluation of elderly residents' needs, which encompasses various aspects of health and well-being. This type of assessment goes beyond a standard health check-up by considering physical health, mental health, functional ability, social circumstances, and environmental factors.

Utilizing this thorough approach ensures that all areas affecting the elderly person's quality of life are examined and addressed. This is vital in developing a tailored care plan that meets the unique needs of each resident, promoting better outcomes and quality of care. Furthermore, it involves input from different healthcare professionals, which enriches the assessment process and facilitates a more holistic understanding of the individual's situation.

In contrast to a general health check-up, which may focus predominantly on physical health, or a simple questionnaire that typically collects limited information, the comprehensive geriatric assessment gathers in-depth data to inform comprehensive care strategies. Focusing solely on medication management would miss critical aspects of a resident's health, thereby failing to provide a well-rounded evaluation essential for effective elderly care.