In class you will be conducting a geriatric functional assessment. Specifically you need to be prepared to conduct a brief health history and use the following two tools (found in your textbook) on “clients” your instructor provides. At the end of the geriatric functional assessment you will be asked to document your findings. Your instructor may ask you to submit your documentation. If so,
it is important to ensure that your documentation is thorough, accurate, and meets all the necessary requirements.
The first step in conducting a geriatric functional assessment is to gather a brief health history from the client. This includes obtaining information about any past medical conditions, surgeries, or hospitalizations, as well as current medications and allergies. It is also important to inquire about any chronic illnesses or disabilities that may impact the client’s daily functioning. Additionally, asking about the client’s social support system and living arrangements can provide valuable insights into their overall well-being.
Once you have gathered the necessary health history information, you can move on to using the first tool, which is the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). The GDS is a questionnaire that is widely used to screen for depression in older adults. It consists of a series of questions that assess a range of depressive symptoms, such as feelings of sadness, loss of interest in activities, and changes in appetite or sleep patterns. By administering the GDS, you can gather information about the client’s mental health and identify any signs of depression that may be impacting their functional status.
The second tool that you will be using is the Activities of Daily Living (ADL) assessment. This is a standardized assessment that measures an individual’s ability to perform basic self-care tasks independently. The ADL assessment typically includes tasks such as bathing, dressing, toileting, transferring, continence, and feeding. By observing and assessing the client’s ability to perform these tasks, you can gain insight into their level of functional independence and identify any areas where they may require assistance or support.
During the geriatric functional assessment, it is important to approach the client with respect, empathy, and sensitivity. Many older adults may have physical or cognitive impairments that can make the assessment process challenging or uncomfortable for them. It is important to create a safe and supportive environment that allows the client to feel comfortable sharing their experiences and concerns.
To document your findings from the geriatric functional assessment, it is important to be thorough and detailed. Start by providing a brief summary of the client’s health history, including any relevant medical conditions, medications, and social support systems. Then, document the results of the GDS and ADL assessments, including any notable findings or areas of concern. Be sure to include specific examples or observations to support your findings.
When documenting your findings, it is important to use clear and concise language. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that may be difficult for others to understand. Instead, use plain language that accurately describes the client’s abilities and limitations. It is also important to be objective and unbiased in your documentation, presenting the information in an objective and non-judgmental manner.
In addition to documenting your findings, it is important to develop a plan of care for the client based on your assessment. This may involve making recommendations for additional medical evaluations or interventions, as well as providing resources and support to address any identified areas of concern. Be sure to include this plan of care in your documentation, along with any relevant follow-up recommendations or referrals.
In conclusion, conducting a geriatric functional assessment requires a thorough understanding of the client’s health history and the use of specific assessment tools. It is important to approach the assessment process with empathy and sensitivity, creating a safe and supportive environment for the client. When documenting your findings, be thorough, detailed, and objective, using clear and concise language. Finally, develop a plan of care based on your assessment that addresses any identified areas of concern and includes recommendations for follow-up.