Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment: Addressing Unmet Healthcare Needs in Older Adults

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Practice

Background:

• Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) is a multidisciplinary approach for older adults.
• CGA demonstrates benefits in functional status, hospital readmissions, institutionalization, and mortality.
• Despite proven benefits, widespread implementation of CGA is limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effectiveness of Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA).
• To identify barriers to CGA implementation.
• To explore strategies for enhancing CGA accessibility and integration.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing literature on Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA).
• Analysis of barriers including workforce shortages, resource limitations, and lack of standardized protocols.
• Exploration of nursing roles and digital solutions for CGA delivery.

Main Results:

• Key barriers to CGA implementation include workforce shortages, lack of standardized protocols, and insufficient training.
• Older adults experience unmet needs in chronic disease management, functional status, mental health, and social support.
• Nurses are crucial for patient-centered care, care coordination, and chronic disease management within CGA.

Conclusions:

• Strengthening geriatric nursing education and integrating CGA into routine practice can improve outcomes for older adults.
• Expanding CGA beyond hospital settings through digital solutions and community-based evaluations is essential.
• Collaboration among policymakers, healthcare systems, and educational institutions is needed to embed CGA in primary healthcare.