Comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA)

Question 1

What is a comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA)?

Answer 1

An organised approach to assessment
designed to determine an older person’s medical conditions, mental health, functional capacity and social circumstances.

Question 2

What is the purpose of CGA?

Answer 2

Its purpose is to develop and implement a coordinated
and integrated plan for treatment, rehabilitation, support and long term follow up.

Question 3

What are the benefits of CGA?

Answer 3

 improves diagnostic accuracy
 optimises medical and rehabilitation treatment
 enhances health and functional outcomes
 informs the development of individualised care plans
 assists in avoiding the potential complications of hospitalisation
 facilitates effective discharge planning.

Question 4

Who should get the CGA?

Answer 4

All older adults identified as being frail or at risk of frailty

Question 5

Who may be part of the team that carries out CGA?

Answer 5

 Medical – e.g. geriatrician,
psychiatry of old age, palliative
care specialist, GP
 Nursing
 Medical social worker
 Physiotherapy
 Occupational therapy
 Speech and language therapy
 Dietetics
 Pharmacists
 Podiatry

Question 6

What are the 4 main dimensions covered in CGA?

Answer 6

Physical, functional, psychological and social assessment

Question 7

Components of physical assessment in CGA?

Answer 7

• Presenting complaint
• Past medical history
• Medication reconciliation and review
• Nutritional status
• Alcohol
• Immunisation status
• Advanced directives

Question 8

Components of functional assessment in CGA?

Answer 8

• Activities of daily living
• Balance
• Mobility

Question 9

Components of psychological assessment in CGA?

Answer 9

• Cognition and mood

Question 10

Components of social assessment in CGA?

Answer 10

• Living arrangements
• Social support
• Carer stress
• Financial circumstances
• Living environment