Citation

O'Neill D. Rev. Clin. Gerontol. 2000; 10(02): 181-191.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, Cambridge University Press)

DOI

10.1017/S0959259800000290

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Over the last fifty years geriatric medicine has promoted the concept that functional loss in older people is primarily a health issue. For a major loss of function, such as incontinence or immobility, we recognize the need for detection, investigation and treatment. The diagnostic / therapeutic / rehabilitation paradigm takes precedence over the prosthetic approach. Not only do we appreciate the benefits of an interdisciplinary assessment, but we are also accustomed to estimating risk and competence when making decisions about discharging frail older people back to their home environment.