CGA and frailty

Question 1

Briefly define CGA

Answer 1

Comprehensive geriatric assessment:
Tool used in the management of older people >65yrs
It is the process of identifying and managing all relevant factors affecting the health and wellbeing of older people, leading to better outcomes

Question 2

What are some of the better outcomes achieved w/ CGA?

Answer 2

Reduced readmissions, reduced long term care needs, greater pt satisfaction, lower costs.

Question 3

Who is involved in conducting a CGA?

Answer 3

MDT:

Geriatrician, nurse specialist, OT, physio, pharmacist etc. (SALT, dietician)

Question 4

What is covered in a CGA?

Answer 4

Problem list- current and past
Medication review
Mental health- cognition, mood, focus
Functional capacity- ADLs, balance, assists
Social circumstance
Environment- home facilities, transport etc

Question 5

Define frailty

Answer 5

The loss of reserves of multiple body systems, meaning an individual has lost the ability to withstand minor stress.

Question 6

What is the difference between disability and frailty?

Answer 6

Disability is the loss of function; frailty is the vulnerability to the loss of function

Question 7

What score is used to determine frailty? What does it range between?

Answer 7

Rockwood frailty score

1-9; very fit- terminally ill

Question 8

What is a Rockwood frailty score of 5/6 indicative of?

Answer 8

Mild/moderately frail

Need help w/ at least one ADL

Question 9

What is a score of >7 on the Rockwood frailty scale indicative of?

Answer 9

Severely frail and completely dependent

Question 10

How is a frailty score determined?

Answer 10

A thorough history guided by the Rockwood frailty score.