Results of 'Short-Form Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment' Application to Elderly Outpatients

Background The importance of comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) for the frail elderly can not be overemphasized. Recently, with increasing elderly population and patients, there are increasing need for simplified CGA tool for evaluation of general health and functional status during the limited time in outpatient clinic. This study was conducted to estimate the effectiveness of the 'Short-form Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment' for detecting hidden medical problems beside preexisting diseases. Methods 78 outpatients aged 65 or more who revisited to outpatient clinic in a Social Welfare Center answered questionnaires and were examined of the 'Short-form Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment. This screening tool included vision, hearing, arm and leg function, urinary incontinence, nutrition, mental status, depression, ADL, IADL and social support. These results were compared with patients' previous medical records. Results Among the total 78 subjects, visual difficulty was detected in 63 (80.8%) (Rt. eye)/67 (85.9%) (Lt. eye). Right hearing difficulty was shown in 8 (10.3%) subjects and left hearing difficulty was shown in 4 (5.1 %) subjects. There were 2 (2.6%) upper extremities dysfunctions and 25 (32.1%) lower extremities dys- functions. 24 (30.8%) subjects had depression. The geriatric depression and age and number of disease showed positive correlations. These problems found by assessment tool were not identified on previous medical records. Conclusion Using the 'Short-form Comprehensive Geriatric Assessmen', we could find the new medical problems besides preexisting disease. These findings stress effectiveness and importance of routine application of screening 'Short-form Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment' on daily outpatient clinical practice to improve quality of medical care for the elderly patients.