Impact of a collaboration revolving around virtual capacity evaluations

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Public Health
• Telehealth

Background:

• Elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation pose significant risks to homebound individuals.
• Capacity assessments are crucial for determining appropriate care and support for vulnerable elders.
• Traditional in-person assessments can be challenging for homebound populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of virtual capacity assessments on accessing medical care and community support.
• To determine if virtual assessments facilitate transitions to higher levels of care when necessary.
• To assess the effectiveness of remote evaluations for victims of elder abuse, neglect, or financial exploitation.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of virtual capacity evaluations conducted between May 2020 and September 2021.
• Data collected from adult protective services (APS) database and medical records.
• Outcomes analyzed included guardianship, community services, care level transitions, and primary care establishment.

Main Results:

• Virtual capacity evaluations were completed for 54 individuals.
• 70% received a statement of expert evaluation, and 52% were assigned guardianship.
• 89% were offered community services, and 81% were connected/reconnected to primary care.
• 57% of individuals were able to remain in their homes post-evaluation.

Conclusions:

• Virtual capacity assessments are effective in supporting homebound elders.
• Remote evaluations facilitate access to essential community services and primary medical care.
• Virtual assessments enable vulnerable elders to remain in their homes while receiving necessary support.