New clinical practice guidelines developed to improve functional screenings of elderly

17/07/2010
17 July 2010, CNA

SINGAPORE: By 2030, one in every five residents will be more than 65 years of age, an increase from the current figure of one in every 11 residents.

To address these imminent healthcare challenges, the Health Promotion Board and the Ministry of Health have developed new guidelines on functional screening.

These guidelines will be used by healthcare professionals and service providers to improve the care of older adults.

The new Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) cover physical function, vision, hearing, oral health, continence, mood and cognition.

Screening programmes based on the new guidelines will kick off this September in the community.

Dr Shyamala Thilagaratnam, director, Healthy Ageing Division, Health Promotion Board, said: "Age-related functional decline could affect independence and quality of life. Screening can bring to light early symptoms and interventions may then be offered." - CNA/vm