[Ambulatory geriatric screening--an overview. II: Evaluation of the effectiveness and current recommendations for screening implementation].

Abstract

Geriatric screening detects many problems previously unknown to the primary health care physician. In spite of this, a valid judgement can only be made if the effectiveness of the induced intervention is proven. Prospective studies evaluating these screening-induced interventions show diverse results. Nevertheless, international task forces conclude from the evidence of existing studies that there are areas which are effective, efficacious, and enhance the quality of life. It remains a continuing task for research to develop geriatric assessment instruments as well as to set up objective guidelines of intervention in these areas.