What does the key component of a geriatric assessment include?

What does the key component of a geriatric assessment include?

• A. Only social aspects of older adult health
• B. Physical, functional, psychological, and social aspects
• C. Only physical and emotional health
• D. Family health history only

Answer: (B)

A key component of a geriatric assessment is the comprehensive evaluation of physical, functional, psychological, and social aspects of an older adult's health. This holistic approach recognizes that the health and well-being of older adults are influenced by a variety of interconnected factors. The physical aspect involves assessing the individual's medical conditions, medications, mobility, and physical abilities. The functional component evaluates their capacity to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and eating, which is crucial for determining the level of independence. The psychological aspect covers mental health issues, cognitive function, and emotional well-being, recognizing that mental health is as important as physical health. Lastly, the social aspect includes understanding the individual's social support systems, living arrangements, and interaction with their community, which are vital for quality of life. This comprehensive view is essential in developing an individualized care plan that addresses all the relevant areas impacting the older adult's overall health and functioning, setting it apart from assessments that focus solely on one dimension, such as physical or emotional health alone.

A key component of a geriatric assessment is the comprehensive evaluation of physical, functional, psychological, and social aspects of an older adult's health. This holistic approach recognizes that the health and well-being of older adults are influenced by a variety of interconnected factors.

The physical aspect involves assessing the individual's medical conditions, medications, mobility, and physical abilities. The functional component evaluates their capacity to perform activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, and eating, which is crucial for determining the level of independence. The psychological aspect covers mental health issues, cognitive function, and emotional well-being, recognizing that mental health is as important as physical health. Lastly, the social aspect includes understanding the individual's social support systems, living arrangements, and interaction with their community, which are vital for quality of life.

This comprehensive view is essential in developing an individualized care plan that addresses all the relevant areas impacting the older adult's overall health and functioning, setting it apart from assessments that focus solely on one dimension, such as physical or emotional health alone.