Geriatric Assessment
Geriatric Assessment is a comprehensive way to evaluate an older person's health, function, and quality of life. It's like a detailed checklist that healthcare workers use to understand all aspects of an elderly person's wellbeing - not just medical issues, but also their ability to live independently, their mental sharpness, emotional health, and social support. This evaluation helps care teams create personalized care plans. You might also see this called "Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment," "Senior Health Assessment," or "Elderly Care Evaluation." It's a crucial skill for healthcare workers who specialize in caring for older adults.
Examples in Resumes
Conducted over 200 Geriatric Assessments for nursing home residents
Led team training on Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment techniques
Implemented new Geriatric Assessment protocols that improved patient care outcomes
Typical job title: "Geriatric Care Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Geriatric Care Specialists
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Networks
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you implement a facility-wide geriatric assessment program?
Expected Answer: Should discuss creating standardized assessment protocols, training staff, coordinating between different departments (nursing, physical therapy, social work), and measuring outcomes for quality improvement.
Q: How do you handle complex cases where family members disagree with assessment findings?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate experience in family communication, conflict resolution, and ability to explain assessment findings in simple terms while maintaining professional standards and patient advocacy.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What are the key components you look for when conducting a geriatric assessment?
Expected Answer: Should mention physical health, mental status, daily living activities, social support, nutrition, medication review, and safety concerns. Should explain how these components work together.
Q: How do you modify your assessment approach for patients with dementia?
Expected Answer: Should explain techniques for working with memory-impaired patients, including involving family members, using simple language, and being patient-centered while ensuring accurate assessment.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic tools do you use in geriatric assessment?
Expected Answer: Should be familiar with common assessment tools like basic mobility tests, mental status questionnaires, and daily living activities checklists.
Q: How do you ensure patient comfort during an assessment?
Expected Answer: Should discuss basic patient communication skills, respect for privacy, clear explanation of procedures, and awareness of physical comfort needs.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic assessment techniques
- Patient communication
- Documentation skills
- Understanding of elderly care basics
Mid (2-5 years)
- Complex assessment management
- Care plan development
- Family communication
- Team coordination
Senior (5+ years)
- Program development
- Staff training and supervision
- Quality improvement implementation
- Complex case management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No experience working with elderly patients
- Poor communication skills
- Lack of patience or empathy
- No knowledge of basic assessment tools
- Unfamiliarity with elder abuse recognition and reporting
Related Terms
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