European consensus on core principles and future priorities for geriatric rehabilitation: consensus statement

• DOI: 10.1007/s41999-019-00274-1
• Publication Date: 2019-12-13T09:04:14Z
• Authors: Stefan Grund; Adam L. Gordon; Romke van Balen; Stefan Bachmann; Antonio Cherubini; Francesco Landi; Andreas E. Stuck; Clemens Becker; Wilco P. Achterberg; Jürgen M. Bauer; Jos M. G. A. Schols
• Keywords: Consensus; EuGMS; European consensus; Geriatric rehabilitation; 610 Medicine & health; INTERNATIONAL CLASSIFICATION; 03 medical and health sciences; 0302 clinical medicine; Functional decline; Humans; FRAILTY; Aged; OF-THE-ART; UNIFYING MODEL; Frailty; DISABILITY; DEMENTIA; 3. Good health; Europe; EuGMS European consensus Frailty Functional decline Geriatric rehabilitation; HEALTH; 0305 other medical science; CONCEPTUAL DESCRIPTION; Forecasting

Abstract Purpose In response to the growing recognition of geriatric rehabilitation and to support healthcare providers which need strategies to support older people with frailty who have experienced functional decline, we developed a consensus statement about core principles and future priorities for geriatric rehabilitation.

Methods We used a three-stage approach to establish consensus—preparation, consensus and review.

Results The consensus statement is grouped under 11 headings from (1) “Definition of GR” to (11) “Effective strategies to develop GR in Europe”, which define geriatric rehabilitation in a way that is compatible with existing service models across Europe. Additionally future goals around research and education are highlighted.

Conclusion The definitions of the consensus statement can provide a starting point for those wishing to further develop geriatric rehabilitation in their jurisdiction and help to develop strategic alliances with other specialties, serving as a basis for a pan-European approach to geriatric rehabilitation.