Tools for assessing the frail elderly. Geriatric evaluation focuses on improving quality of life.
Questionnaires and screening scales can help physicians identify physical, functional, social, and psychological problems often seen in frail elderly patients and also assess caregiver strain. Physicians should review with patients and caregivers the main findings and discuss plans for further evaluation and management, including laboratory tests, vaccinations, and advance directives.
Department of General Internal Medicine, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, USA. gjacob@pol.net
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D000058:Accidental Falls / Q000517:prevention & control; D000203:Activities of Daily Living / Q000145:classification; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D016330:Frail Elderly; D015577:Geriatric Assessment; D006801:Humans; D008609:Mental Status Schedule; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care; D012307:Risk Factors