NURS8867N Interdisciplinary Approach to Geriatric Assessment and Long Term Care
Outline of the Article
NURS8867N Interdisciplinary Approach to Geriatric Assessment and Long Term Care
Introduction
Geriatric assessment is a comprehensive evaluation of an older adult’s physical, cognitive, functional, and psychosocial well-being. It plays a vital role in identifying age-related changes, assessing individual needs, and developing personalized care plans. Taking an interdisciplinary approach to geriatric assessment involves a collaborative effort from healthcare professionals specializing in different disciplines, such as medicine, nursing, occupational therapy, and social work. This article explores the interdisciplinary approach to geriatric assessment and its significance in long-term care.
Components of Geriatric Assessment
Geriatric assessment comprises several components that provide a holistic view of an older adult’s health. The physical assessment involves evaluating vital signs, mobility, sensory functions, and assessing for any chronic conditions or acute illnesses. Cognitive assessment focuses on determining cognitive function, memory, and potential signs of dementia or cognitive decline. Functional assessment examines an individual’s ability to perform daily activities independently, including mobility, self-care, and instrumental activities of daily living. Psychosocial assessment evaluates an older adult’s mental health, social support, and emotional well-being. Additionally, a medication review and nutritional assessment are essential to identify any potential medication-related issues or nutritional deficiencies.
Interdisciplinary Team in Geriatric Assessment
An interdisciplinary team is crucial in conducting a comprehensive geriatric assessment. This team consists of various healthcare professionals who bring their unique expertise and perspectives to the assessment process. Physicians provide medical diagnoses and manage health conditions. Nurses play a vital role in coordinating care, educating patients and families, and monitoring health outcomes. Occupational therapists focus on improving an individual’s independence in activities of daily living and facilitating functional rehabilitation. Social workers assess psychosocial needs, provide counseling, and connect older adults with community resources. Collaboration and effective communication within the interdisciplinary team are vital for a successful geriatric assessment.
Benefits of an Interdisciplinary Approach
The interdisciplinary approach to geriatric assessment offers several benefits. Firstly, it ensures a comprehensive evaluation of an older adult’s health, considering physical, cognitive, functional, and psychosocial aspects. This comprehensive approach leads to better understanding and addressing of individual needs. Secondly, the interdisciplinary team provides holistic care by addressing all aspects of an older adult’s well-being. This approach acknowledges that physical health is interconnected with cognitive, functional, and psychosocial well-being. Thirdly, an interdisciplinary approach improves outcomes by promoting early detection of health issues, preventing complications, and
facilitating timely interventions. The collaboration within the interdisciplinary team allows for a coordinated and cohesive care plan that enhances the quality of life for older adults.
Challenges in Implementing an Interdisciplinary Approach
While the interdisciplinary approach to geriatric assessment brings numerous benefits, there are also challenges to overcome. One common challenge is communication barriers among team members. Each discipline has its own specialized language and terminology, making effective communication essential for understanding and collaboration. Coordination difficulties can arise when multiple healthcare professionals are involved, requiring efficient scheduling and shared documentation systems. Conflicting opinions among team members may also arise due to different perspectives and approaches