J Korean Med Assoc.  2023 Jul;66(7):439-447. 10.5124/jkma.2023.66.7.439.

Comprehensive geriatric assessment for the evaluation of the health statuses of elderly patients

• Roh YK

• KMID: 2544707
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5124/jkma.2023.66.7.439

Abstract

Background
For elderly patients with many chronic and degenerative diseases (multiple comorbidities) and geriatric syndromes, chronic and complex problems should be comprehensively evaluated. The comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) is an evaluation of elderly patients in which clinical, medical, and functional evaluations are performed together.
Current Concepts
Components of CGA include physical, psychological, and socioenvironmental content. In the physical aspect, the presence of various diseases, determination of the severity of each disease, multi-drug intake (polypharmacy), and vaccination records are evaluated. Geriatric syndromes should also be included in the evaluation. The functional evaluation comprises visual acuity, hearing, upper and lower extremity function, gait ability, balance, fall, urinary incontinence, weight change, oral health, nutritional status, and pain. In the psychological aspect, depression and cognitive function status are evaluated. The residential environment, degree of familial and social support, economic status, and advanced medical directives are evaluated in the socioenvironmental aspect.
Discussion and Conclusion
Elderly patients with functional disabilities should be screened via the CGA for various problems and geriatric syndromes that the elderly are prone to developing. Problems found require further evaluation, treatment, and management. In this way, the health and quality of life of the elderly can be maintained and improved.

Keyword

Aged; Geriatrics; Activities of daily living; Geriatric assessment; 노인; 노인의학; 일상생활활동; 포괄적 노인평가