Frailty Snapshot in the Emergency Department: Surveying the Needs of Older Adults

Abstract Background Older adults presenting to Emergency Departments (EDs) with frailty often have complex needs not fully addressed by ED care models. Evidence shows these patients frequently experience gaps in basic care, including support for daily living, communication, and mobility, as EDs are primarily designed for acute, episodic care. In Ireland. Methods The Frailty Snapshot survey was developed to capture key care domains for frail older adults in the ED: A Rehabilitation Assistant administered the survey to patients aged 65 and over. Data were recorded on standardised forms and uploaded to the patient centre and shared at daily huddles. Results 113 patients were assessed. Most had their own clothes (97.3%) and shoes (96.4%). Over half (54.6%) required a walking aid, but 30.8% of these did not have one available. Additionally, 38.0% had not been mobilised or offered mobilisation. For continence and toileting, 23.0% had not been to the toilet or offered the opportunity, and 32.7% were placed in continence wear. Mouth care was lacking, with 90.2% not having received mouth care and 92.0% without a toothbrush. Sensory aids were often missing: half of those needing hearing aids did not have them, 48% lacked glasses, and 25% were missing dentures. While 92.0% had access to a chair, 59.2% had not sat out Conclusion The Frailty Snapshot highlighted significant gaps in care a lack of access to aids for frail older adults in the ED. A Rehabilitation Assistant was highly beneficial in supporting FIT therapists to led to more efficient identification of identify and prioritise suitable cases, enabling therapists to promptly prioritise and assess patients for assessment. Further evaluation of access to toileting, communication aids, mobility aids, and seating is required to ensure comprehensive improvements in patient care.