Predicting speed at traffic lights—the problem with static assessments of frailty

For some time, considerable research has focused on developing screening tools effective in identifying frail elderly patients at risk of adverse outcomes. The comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) remains the gold standard for identifying modifiable risk factors within this group. However, resources are stretched. A good CGA takes time and can involve several members of the multidisciplinary team. An instrument that can effectively guide implementation of the CGA in a discriminatory way is therefore much sought after. ISAR [1], Barthel [2], Katz [3], SHARE [4] to name but a few have been adopted for this purpose. This profusion of studies unfortunately only re-enforces the lack of consensus on an instrument that satisfactorily fulfils this role. In order for this screening tool to transcend from an academic exercise into real world practice, it must fulfil certain characteristics. Perhaps most importantly, it should be quick and easy to administer; ideally utilising data that are readily available to clinicians. The sensitivity should be high enough to make the exercise worthwhile while retaining the specificity to prevent indiscriminate use of resources. The paper by Heim et al … Language: en