Abstract
Aging of the population has implications for society in general and health systems in particular. The enhancement of function and autonomy in old age should guide the provision of health care to this group. Concealment of complaints, which may lead the doctor to miss important health problems, is one of the problems of clinical evaluation in older patients. A structured assessment of health needs may contribute to a better identification of problems linked to functional deterioration. Studies conducted in many countries have identified five key areas for assessment of the needs of the elderly in primary care: vision and hearing, mobility and falls, incontinence, memory, and emotional distress. A systematic evaluation of these areas may contribute to the early detection of risk factors that lead to functional decline, affecting the quality of life of these patients. Feasibility studies of routine needs assessment of the elderly in general practice are warranted.
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