During a functional assessment of a geriatric patient, what consideration should be made?

Allowing more time for the assessment is essential when working with a geriatric patient who has impaired mobility. Older adults often require additional time to complete tasks due to physical limitations, cognitive processing speed, or the need for breaks. By providing extra time, the healthcare provider ensures that the patient feels more comfortable and less rushed, which promotes accuracy in the assessment.

Furthermore, patience is crucial when evaluating various functional abilities such as dressing, bathing, and transferring. This approach helps to build rapport with the patient, making them feel valued and understood. Moreover, recognizing that mobility impairments can vary widely among individuals can guide the healthcare provider in adapting the assessment process according to each patient's specific needs, ensuring a thorough and effective evaluation of their functional status.