Assessment Considerations Across the Lifespan: Older Adults: 1

Question 1

Identify techniques useful for assessing older adults with mental health problems, and important assessment areas for the nurse.

Answer 1

Watch patient interact with family/caregiver (observe relationships)

Individual interviews to ask about needs

Understand caregiver needs, level of support, obtain additional history

Know their physical health will be declining but their mental health should be fine

Slow response but good mental health

Create a respectful and non-distracting environment.

Include family and caregivers in the assessment process when appropriate

What should we do when assessing an older adult?
-Talk with the patient
-hear from the family what is going on with them
-know if the caregivers need anything