Article

Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS) is an individualized goal-setting and
measurement approach that is useful for patients with multiple, individualized
health problems, such as those served by geriatric day hospitals (GDHs) and other
specialized geriatric programmes. Purpose: To assess the feasibility and utility
of GAS in a multi-site study of six GDH affiliated with the Regional Geriatric
Programmes of Ontario. METHOD: Individualized GAS guides were developed for 15
consecutively admitted patients at each site [total n = 90; mean age: 76.2 SD
8.3; 58.9% female; mean attendances: 24.0 SD 10.3]. Staff members (n = 39) were
surveyed on their experience with GAS. RESULTS: Mean goals/patient ranged across
sites from 2.1 to 4.3. Mean GAS discharge score was 52.3 SD 8.7, close to the
theoretically expected values of 50 SD 10. Common goals included mobility,
community reintegration, basic and instrumental activities of daily living,
medical issues, cognition/communication, and home safety. Estimated mean time to
develop a GAS guide ranged across sites from 15.3 to 43.8 min. CONCLUSION:
Clients were often involved in goal setting; family involvement was less
frequent. The staff survey identified challenges and benefits regarding the use
of GAS. Study results are being used to inform a more consistent approach to the
clinical and research use of GAS in GDH.

Langue : ANGLAIS