Geriatric Evaluation

What is a geriatric evaluation?

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A geriatric evaluation is a consultative resource for patients, their family members and caregivers. The evaluation provides a comprehensive assessment of an older adult’s health issues in the context of psychosocial and family needs, and it provides a comprehensive plan for managing the person’s conditions and care. A geriatric evaluation also provides education and patient-specific information about health problems as well as information about and access to community and private supports for patients and caregivers.

 

When is a geriatric evaluation appropriate?

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A geriatric evaluation is advised if you are concerned about your loved one’s ability to live independently or if the person is experiencing any combination of the following symptoms:

• Multiple health problems

• Confusion or memory loss

• Behavioral changes, including sadness, depression or anxiety

• Difficulty performing daily activities

• Balance and walking problems

• Weakness, caused by deconditioning of the muscles or other health problems

• Nutritional concerns, including unexplained weight loss

• Problems related to the use of multiple medications, including dizziness or falls

• Uncertainty about the person’s ability to live independently.
   

What should I or my loved one bring to a geriatric evaluation?

 

For the initial geriatric evaluation appointment, bring:

• All medicine containers

• Medical records for care obtained outside Gericare Center including physicians, hospitals and family health centers

• Details of past illnesses, surgeries, allergies, etc.

• Current insurance information

 

There is no need for a patient to refrain from eating, but please plan to arrive 30 minutes early.

 

What should I or my loved one expect during the initial geriatric evaluation?

 

During the evaluation, physicians or nurse practitioner will work closely with a team of healthcare professionals which may include nurse specialists, social workers, physical therapists and pharmacists to complete a comprehensive evaluation. Laboratory, X-ray/imaging studies and other referrals will be made as needed.

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Using a holistic approach, the team will evaluate and assess the patient’s physical health, mental health, functional status, social support system, economic status, as well as the accessibility and safety of the person’s living environment. During the evaluation, the person’s levels of social and emotional support and physical functioning will be evaluated. The  patient may be screened for depression and memory impairment and information gathered about social supports and living conditions.

 

When the initial evaluation is completed, the physician or nurse practitioner will:

• Review the medical evaluation with you and your loved one

• Suggest referrals to other specialists as needed

• Schedule an appointment for a follow-up visit.
   

What should I or my loved one expect at the follow-up for the geriatric evaluation visit?

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At your follow-up visit, the physician will present a full medical, psychological and social evaluation that provides:

• A clearer understanding of your loved one’s health problems and psychological issues

• A full and comprehensive assessment of the person’s needs

• A plan of care to optimize the person’s medical treatments, functioning and quality of life

• A list of options to consider regarding the person’s health issues

• Advice and help with difficult decisions regarding living arrangements, home safety and end-of-life issues

• Information and Referrals for all appropriate services and programs services

 

During your follow-up visit, arrangements can be made for ongoing geriatric evaluation consultations to help deal with issues that tend to require ongoing review, such as living arrangements, caregiver needs, health insurance and legal issues and even caregiver needs.

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What is the cost of a geriatric evaluation?

Costs of the physician consultation are covered by Medicare Part B and most private insurance plans. Costs of diagnostic tests and referrals to team members also are covered by Medicare Part B and most private insurance plans. Specialists may bill separately, but referrals for additional services will be reviewed with you before they are ordered.

 

How do I make an appointment for a geriatric evaluation?

You may make an appointment yourself for evaluation. In addition, we also accept referrals from community resources, including local offices on aging and senior centers.

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To make an appointment, please contact us at 352-666-0790.