How the University Health Network developed and used aging simulation suits (or “Geri Suits”) to educate ED staff about the experiences of older patients in the ED in order to improve physical environments and services for older adults.
The improved and rapidly expanding systems of Geriatric ED care are inspiring. However, we must do everything in our power to reach all patient populations, especially the disadvantaged and their caregivers, in order for us to realize the true potential of GEDs.
Volunteering is where many of us got our first exposure to patient care and how we could be helpful to other people. Many EDs are starting to harness the power of volunteerism to support older people.
Recognizing the everyday forms of neglect – and ways that we can intervene to address – we can make a big difference in the lives of vulnerable older people.