Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to review the existing literature as it pertains to the effectiveness of geriatric evaluation and management units (GEMUs) in treating frail older adults. Materials and methods: A PubMed search was done using the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms geriatric assessment, patient care team, and activities of daily living. Non-acute inpatient GEMUs were the main focus for this review and included two randomized controlled clinical trials and one meta-analysis. Primary and secondary outcomes from each article were examined. This article also includes a general overview of other specialized geriatric services. Results: Variable outcome measures in the three main articles reviewed make it difficult to draw conclusions about specific benefits of GEMUs. Outcomes such as mortality, function, and quality of life reveal inconsistent results among the three studies. Mobility and cognition were examined in only one study but show positive results. GEMUs were successful in delaying the need for long-term care admission. The overall cost of care in a GEMU was neutral compared with that of usual care. In terms of other specialized geriatric services, the literature shows some promising results in outcomes such as function. Conclusions: A review of the existing literature of specialized geriatric services, specifically focusing on GEMUs, reveals variable results. More research is needed in this area.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 104-109 |
| Number of pages | 6 |
| Journal | Geriatrics Today: Journal of the Canadian Geriatrics Society |
| Volume | 8 |
| Issue number | 3 |
| Publication status | Published - Oct 2005 |
| Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus Subject Areas
- Geriatrics and Gerontology