Gerontoscopy: an investigative procedure in the care of the elderly

Gerontoscopy, or multidimensional geriatric assessment, is a process by which a team of professionals gathers data about the health and functional status of elderly patients. The information gathered is vital for the development of comprehensive care plans, which in turn promote the patients' functional independence and improve their quality of life. The process, and evaluations of its effectiveness, cost, and future role, are briefly reviewed. The data yielded by gerontoscopy is also important in the development of health policies for the fastest-growing segment of the population, the elderly, who are also the heaviest consumers of health-care products and services.