Comprehensive geriatric assessment programmes: Possibilities, realities and outcomes

Interventions based on comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) have been implemented in many countries. These interventions, based on the premise that such assessment will delay individual decline and reduce demand on medical and institutional care, generally result in equivocal or modest outcomes. This article presents findings from a critical realist review of a sample of reported interventions to offer insights into the macro- and micro-factors that affect the implementation and outcomes of CGA-based endeavours. The findings hold particular relevance for informing Australian policy which provides for annual, clinical assessment of people above the age of 75.