Inpatient Geriatric Consult Team

Older adults often face unique healthcare challenges during hospitalization. The Inpatient Geriatric Consult Team (IGCT) is a specialized service designed to meet the complex needs of patients aged 65 and older. Through expert assessments and collaborative care planning, the IGCT helps ensure seniors receive compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-based care throughout their hospital stay.

What We Do: Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA)

At the core of our work is the Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA)—a holistic model of care that identifies and addresses the medical, cognitive, emotional, and functional needs of older patients. This approach supports more informed treatment planning and helps prevent complications during hospitalization.

A Collaborative, Multidisciplinary Approach

The IGCT works closely with hospitalists, nursing staff, patients, families, and caregivers to ensure every aspect of care is tailored to the unique needs of older adults. We identify and manage common geriatric issues, including:

  • Delirium and acute confusion

  • Falls and injury prevention

  • Polypharmacy (multiple medications)

  • Functional decline

Our recommendations are designed to enhance recovery, reduce complications, and improve patient outcomes.

The Team: Roles That Make a Difference

Geriatric Assessors

  • Triage referrals and conduct in-depth geriatric assessments

  • Implement recommendations and monitor patient progress

  • Ensure continuity of care throughout hospitalization

Geriatricians

  • Lead the CGA process and guide treatment plans

  • Manage complex, age-related health conditions

  • Provide expertise in geriatric medicine

Recreation Therapists & Assistants

  • Promote physical and cognitive wellness through therapeutic activities

  • Focus on delirium prevention and functional maintenance

  • Enhance patients’ recovery experience and quality of life

Who Can Benefit?

The IGCT supports hospitalized patients aged 65+ who may be experiencing:

  • Delirium or acute confusion

  • Recent falls or risk of falling

  • Aggressive behaviors, agitation, or wandering

  • Acute or subacute functional decline

  • Frequent hospital or Emergency Department visits

  • Polypharmacy (multiple medications)

  • Social isolation

 

If you know someone over the age of 65 that is admitted to SAH and would benefit from the expertise of the Inpatient Geriatric Consult Team, we encourage you talk to their care team for more information about the referral process. Our team is ready to assist in providing patient-centred, senior-friendly care to help achieve the best possible outcomes during their hospital stay.