People over age 65 are the fastest growing population group. Their numbers are expected to double from 35 million to 70 million by 2030 and will represent 20% of the U.S. population. The WOC professional whose practice focus is care of adults is increasingly becoming an older adults practice. In 2000, 70% of all home care patients were over age 65. In 2001, 39% of Emergency Room visits by people over age 75 resulted in hospitalization, compared to 12% of all ages. In 2002, adults over age 65 used 45% of hospital days and incurred 45% of all hospital inpatient expenditures. The need for a tool- a professional practice innovation which could simplify the geriatric assessment screening and placement process was identified. After several years of study, the Senior LIFEsteps tool was created. The tool looks at key indicators of independent function including mobility, cognition, activities of daily living, medication management and depression. The results of the screen are then analyzed using the Wassenaar Continuum Scale, a reliable and valid instrument which helps facilitate the identification of the older adult's needs as well as additional service requirements post discharge. The tool has demonstrated benefits in the following areas: Standardize a complex process Uncover a new revenue source Communicate effectively Conflict management Enhance the WOC professional's role in geriatric assessment Screen for risk potential Streamline the discharge planning process

Reference: Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related Statistics. Older Americans 2004: Key Indicators of Well-Being. Federal Interagency Forum on Aging-Related Statistics. Washington, DC: U.S. Government Printing Office. November 2004