Holistic Senior Wellness: Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment in Australia

As we age our health needs become more complex. A standard check up misses the intricate interplay of physical, mental, social and daily living skills that impact an older person’s well-being. At eMed Specialists we get this. That’s why we offer Comprehensive Geriatric Assessments (CGAs) – a more holistic and personalised approach to senior care that addresses the unique challenges faced by older Australians.

What is a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment?

Think of a CGA as a really detailed health snapshot, going way beyond a standard medical check up. It’s a multidisciplinary assessment that looks deep into your overall health and well-being, at everything from your physical abilities and cognitive function to your social connections and emotional state. This gives us a full picture, so we can create a personalised care plan that addresses your specific needs, helps you maintain your independence and improves your quality of life. It’s all about proactive management, helping prevent problems before they become big issues. It’s particularly useful for older Australians managing multiple health concerns, so is a valuable tool for navigating the complexities of ageing.

Why Choose a Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment?

A Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment is more than just another appointment; it’s an investment in your well-being. Here’s why it’s so good:

Sees the bigger picture: Unlike check ups that focus on one thing at a time, a CGA looks at how all the different parts of your health are connected. We see the whole picture, so we understand how problems in one area can impact others.

Proactive not reactive: We identify potential problems early, so we can act quickly and prevent crises. It’s about getting ahead of the game, not just reacting to problems.

Focuses on quality of life: The personalised care plan prioritizes your independence, safety and overall happiness. We’re here to support you to live life to the full.

Uses resources wisely: Your personalised care plan means you get the right care, at the right time, making best use of available resources.

Improves treatment outcomes: A full understanding of your health means any treatment you may need will be much more effective.

What’s involved in a CGA?

Our CGA process is thorough and well planned. It involves a comprehensive evaluation of these key areas:

Medical History: We thoroughly review your past and present medical conditions, current symptoms, medications, allergies and significant past illnesses. We also consider family history to identify any inherited health risks.

Functional Abilities Assessment: We go beyond simple daily living questions. We assess your Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) – washing, dressing, eating, using the toilet, moving around – and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) – managing your finances, shopping, cooking, using transport.

Cognitive Function Check: We assess your cognitive abilities – memory, attention, ability to understand language, reasoning skills. We may use validated tools such as the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) or the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) to determine if there is any cognitive impairment.

Social and Environmental Review: We look at your social support network – family, friends, community groups – and your living situation and check for any potential hazards in your home. This helps us develop a care plan that takes into account your overall environment.

Nutritional Status Assessment: We review your diet to identify any nutritional deficiencies or issues affecting your health. We look at your weight, BMI, appetite and whether you have any swallowing or dental problems.

Mental Health Screening: We screen for depression, anxiety and other mental health concerns using validated tools like the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS).

Comprehensive Physical Exam: We do a full physical exam, focusing on areas important for older people – cardiovascular health, musculoskeletal system, sensory function (sight, hearing, touch), mobility. This helps us identify any underlying physical issues contributing to health problems.

Who may benefit from a CGA?

A CGA can be very helpful for many older people, especially those who:

• Have several ongoing health issues
• Noticeable memory problems or confusion
• Increasing difficulty with everyday tasks
• Recent falls or fractures
• Feel isolated or lonely
• Significant life changes – moving house or losing a loved one

eMed Specialists – Your Senior Wellbeing Partners

At eMed Specialists, our experienced geriatricians and telehealth medical specialists are dedicated to providing compassionate, personalised care. We provide comprehensive geriatric  assessments working closely with you and your family to develop a tailored care plan that puts you at the centre. We believe in patient-centred care, open communication, and collaborative teamwork to achieve your individual health goals. We’re here to empower you to maintain your independence, improve your quality of life, and enjoy a fulfilling retirement.