Training to spot frailty risk

A properly trained nurse may be key to combatting frailty, according to new findings published in JAMDA.

Researchers observed a specialist nurse who they trained in primary care and geriatric assessment. The training was an effort to explore a care model to identify seniors in geriatric day hospitals (GDHFs) at risk for frailty-related health issues.

The nurse evaluated 200 patients using the comprehensive geriatric assessment and frailty assessment tools as well as collaborated with a general practitioner (GP) to create a care plan.

“This work foreshadows any other ambulatory options for older persons in his/her living area representing an alternative to the GDHF,” the researchers concluded. “It seems to meet the needs for this population and demonstrates the feasibility to implement in primary care a nurse trained to assess older patients in a GP office.”

Nicole Stempak

Nicole was Senior Editor at I Advance Senior Care and Long Term Living Magazine 2015-2017. She has a Journalism degree from Kent State University and is finalizing a master’s degree in Information Architecture and Management. She has extensive studies in the digital user experience and in branding online media. She has worked as an editor and writer for various B2B publications, including Business Finance.