Tailored Health Insights
for Older Adults
Discover Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment for Holistic Well-being
What is CGA?
At Charvaka Clinic, we prioritize the health and well-being of older adults through the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA). This holistic evaluation method addresses the complex healthcare needs of elderly individuals by assessing various domains, including medical, functional, psychological, social, and environmental factors.
Why CGA?
Ageing often brings multiple chronic conditions, cognitive decline, and functional impairments, which can complicate treatment. CGA is crucial for early detection of these issues, promoting improved quality of life and preventing unnecessary hospitalizations.
Who Benefits Most from CGA?
- Frail Older Adults
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Elderly with Multiple Chronic Conditions like
Diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, or arthritis - Patients Experiencing Cognitive Decline
- Seniors at Risk of Falls
- Elderly Patients with Functional Decline
- Elderly with Complex Social and Psychological Needs
- Those with Unexplained Weight Loss or Malnutrition
Physical Assessment: As people age, physical strength, mobility, and coordination often decline, increasing the risk of falls, fractures, and disability. A physical assessment in a CGA evaluates mobility, muscle strength, balance, and chronic conditions like arthritis or heart disease. This helps identify fall risks and functional decline, allowing for personalized interventions such as physical therapy or exercise routines to maintain independence and prevent complications.
Psychological Assessment: Older adults are at heightened risk for mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, which can often go undetected. The psychological assessment in the CGA utilises validated questionnaires to evaluate mental health. This approach helps identify conditions like depression, anxiety, or cognitive decline, allowing for timely interventions and appropriate support to enhance the individual’s overall well-being.
Functional Assessment: As people age, they often face challenges with daily tasks, affecting their independence and quality of life. The functional assessment in a CGA evaluates the ability to perform Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) like dressing and eating, and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) such as cooking and managing medications. This identifies functional limitations and helps create support plans, like assistive devices or home care, to maintain independence.
Social Assessment: Social isolation and lack of support can severely impact the mental and physical health of older adults, making them more prone to depression and other issues. The CGA assesses the patient’s social support system, living environment, and community resource access. This helps detect social isolation and promotes interventions to enhance social engagement and care.
Environmental Assessment: Older adults are at higher risk of accidents in their home due to mobility issues and unsafe environments. CGA identifies potential home hazards, such as poor lighting, loose rugs, and inaccessible spaces. It includes a home safety checklist to recommend modifications like grab bars or better lighting, ensuring a safer living environment for the elderly.
Medication Review: Older adults often take multiple medications, increasing the risk of interactions, side effects, or inappropriate prescriptions. CGA reviews all medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements, identifying issues like polypharmacy or incorrect dosages. This review ensures medications are safe and effective, potentially adjusting or discontinuing them to reduce side effects and optimize overall health.