HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Why Would A 72 Year Old Undergo Geriatric Assessment?

default
Posted on Fri, 3 Aug 2018
Question: why would someone 72 need a geriatric assessment t
est 4 to 5 hour test?
doctor
Answered by Dr. salah saad shoman (43 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Avoid under and misdiagnosis

Detailed Answer:
Dear Ma'am, I have gone through your question and I understand your concerns but a complete assessment is usually initiated when the physician detects a potential problem such as confusion, falls, immobility, or incontinence. This is usually needed as older persons often do not present in a typical manner, and atypical responses to illness are common. A patient presenting with confusion may not have a neurologic problem, but rather an infection. Social and psychological factors may also mask classic disease presentations and misdiagnosis of illness is very common in old age..

The geriatric assessment is a multidimensional assessment designed to evaluate an older person's functional ability, physical health, cognition and mental health, and socioenvironmental circumstances. It includes an extensive review of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products, as well as a review of immunization status. This assessment aids in the diagnosis of medical conditions; development of treatment and follow-up plans; coordination of management of care; and evaluation of long-term care needs and optimal placement.
Also this type of assessment is highly beneficial and often yields a more complete and relevant list of previously undiscovered medical problems, functional problems, and psychosocial issues.. I hope you find this helpful..
Note: Get a consultation booked to know more about aging related medical issues. Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. salah saad shoman

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 3153 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Why Would A 72 Year Old Undergo Geriatric Assessment?

Brief Answer: Avoid under and misdiagnosis Detailed Answer: Dear Ma'am, I have gone through your question and I understand your concerns but a complete assessment is usually initiated when the physician detects a potential problem such as confusion, falls, immobility, or incontinence. This is usually needed as older persons often do not present in a typical manner, and atypical responses to illness are common. A patient presenting with confusion may not have a neurologic problem, but rather an infection. Social and psychological factors may also mask classic disease presentations and misdiagnosis of illness is very common in old age.. The geriatric assessment is a multidimensional assessment designed to evaluate an older person's functional ability, physical health, cognition and mental health, and socioenvironmental circumstances. It includes an extensive review of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products, as well as a review of immunization status. This assessment aids in the diagnosis of medical conditions; development of treatment and follow-up plans; coordination of management of care; and evaluation of long-term care needs and optimal placement. Also this type of assessment is highly beneficial and often yields a more complete and relevant list of previously undiscovered medical problems, functional problems, and psychosocial issues.. I hope you find this helpful..