In geriatric medical studies, the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) is valuable for which purpose?

The Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA) is particularly valuable for identifying at-risk individuals in the geriatric population. This multifaceted assessment combines various aspects of health evaluation, including medical history, physical health status, functional capability, mental health, and social circumstances. By systematically assessing these areas, the CGA can highlight vulnerabilities and specific factors that may place older adults at higher risk for adverse health outcomes, such as falls, hospitalization, or deterioration in health.

In contrast, identifying healthy individuals is not the primary focus of CGA. It is more about understanding the overall health status and needs of older adults, rather than screening for healthiness. Describing biological age is a more specific concept that may not encapsulate the comprehensive approach of CGA, which considers various dimensions of aging beyond just biological markers. Lastly, while measuring physical health is a component of the CGA, the assessment is much broader and includes psychological and social factors, making the identification of at-risk individuals a more fitting and holistic purpose for its use.