What aspect of patient care does a comprehensive geriatric assessment focus on?

A comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) centers on a holistic evaluation of older adults, addressing multiple dimensions of their health and well-being. This assessment goes beyond merely checking physical health status or focusing solely on oncological treatment options or psychological factors. Instead, it employs a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates physical health, functional abilities, mental health, social support, and environmental factors.

The goal of a CGA is to create a comprehensive overview that helps in understanding the broad spectrum of issues affecting an older adult's health, ultimately guiding personalized care planning. By examining the interplay between various domains such as medical conditions, mobility, cognitive function, and social circumstances, healthcare providers can develop targeted strategies for management and support, thereby improving patient outcomes and quality of life. This extensive and inclusive evaluation is particularly crucial in geriatric care due to the complex needs and vulnerabilities of older adults.