The Geriatric Assessment Outreach Team members are health care professionals (nurses, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and social workers) who provide a comprehensive geriatric assessment for older adults who are 65 years and older living in the community.
Our goals
- Improve quality of life.
- Optimize functional independence, autonomy, health and safety in the community.
- Prevent and avoid unnecessary emergency department visits and hospitalizations.
What we do
The Geriatric Assessment Outreach Team members are health professionals (nurses, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and social workers) who provide a comprehensive geriatric health assessment for older adults aged 65 and older, in their homes or over the phone.
How to Refer
Referrals go to our Central Intake for Specialized Geriatric Services where they are triaged by a health professional and forwarded to the most appropriate service.
What is a comprehensive geriatric assessment?
A comprehensive geriatric assessment is an overall review of health and day-to-day functioning for older adults. The following areas are explored:
- Medical concerns
- Medications
- Memory
- Mobility
- Mood
- Household activities
- Personal care
- Driving safety
- Nutrition
- Social Issues
- Safety
- Home environment
Referral Criteria?
- The client must be in agreement to the assessment.
- The client must have a valid Ontario Health Card.
- The client must be 65 years or older.
- The client must reside in the City of Ottawa.
- The client must not reside in a long-term care facility.
Referral Process
Anyone can refer an older adult to our program with their agreement. Completed referral forms the Central Intake for Specialized Geriatric Services can be submitted by telephone, fax or e-referral.
Once Central Intake for Specialized Geriatric Services receives the referral, it is reviewed and triaged by a health care professional. If it is determined that the Geriatric Assessment Outreach Team is the best service to assess the concerns identified, an appointment will be provided to the older adult.
What to expect?
- The average assessment lasts approximately 2 hours. Collaboration with the older adult and their family and/or caregivers (if applicable) helps to identify needs and determine appropriate actions.
- Based on consultation with the geriatrician and other team members, recommendations may consist of:
- Referral for more in-depth assessment and/or treatment at one of the other specialized geriatric services (e.g. Geriatric Day Hospital)
- Referral to other health agencies or community services.
- An assessment Summary and Recommendations Report will be forwarded to their primary care provider and other health care professionals as appropriate.
For more information
Ottawa West
West of Bronson Avenue
Tel: 613-721-0041
Ottawa East
East of Bronson Avenue
Tel: 613-562-6362
The interactive online geriatric services map allows you to search and locate services around your location and provides contact information.
