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Table 1 Geriatric assessment tools and examples of possible interventions based on the assessment results

From: Protocol for a multi-site, cluster‐randomized, phase III, comparative clinical trial of geriatric assessment of older patients with non‐small‐cell lung cancer: the ENSURE-GA study

Evaluated items Recommended GA tools Example of intervention (support) method based on the GA results
Physical function: Falls • Lawton IADL
• “How many times have you fallen during the last 6 months?”
• Referral to an occupational therapist and/or physiotherapist
• Prevention of falls
• Evaluation of safety of home and garden
Complications, polypharmacy • CCI
• Number of drugs in regular use
• Encouraging involvement of family members in management of complications
• Collaboration between the primary-care physician and a geriatrician
• Consulting a pharmacist regarding reducing the number of medications
Cognitive function • Mini-Cog • Evaluation of decision-making capability
• Selection of someone with power of attorney, if necessary
• Collaboration between a geriatrician and a cognitive function specialist
• Prevention of delusions, by adjusting medication
Depressive state • GDS • Referral to a psychiatrist
• Promoting participation in social activities
• Prescription of an antidepressant
Nutrition • BMI below 21 kg/m2 • Referral to a dietician
• Provision of support for preparing meals
Social support • Do you have key persons, family, or friends regarding cancer treatment? • Referral to a social worker
  1. BMI body mass index; CCI Charlson Comorbidity Index; GA geriatric assessment; GDS geriatric depression scale; IADL Instrumental Activities of Daily Living Scale; Mini-Cog Mini-Cog screening for cognitive impairment in older adults