RECIMUNDO · Jan 14, 2026

Role of nursing in the comprehensive assessment of older adults: a biopsychosocial approach

By Vélez MLA, Ibarra CPT

This study comprehensively analyzes the fundamental role of nursing professionals in Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (VGI) within a biopsychosocial paradigm, integrating the latest scientific evidence generated between 2021 and 2026. In the face of global population aging, characterized by an exponential increase in individuals older than 60 years and a growing prevalence of frailty, VGI has become established as the methodology of choice for addressing clinical and social complexity. The study examines how nursing operationalizes this multidimensional tool to assess clinical, functional, mental, and social domains, enabling the early detection of geriatric syndromes and the development of personalized care plans that transcend the traditional biomedical model. Through a systematic review of technical literature, clinical trials such as CEpiA, and implementation studies in high-complexity settings, it is demonstrated that a high-fidelity nursing intervention in VGI significantly reduces the risk of hospitalization (by up to 39%) and improves critical metabolic indicators in patients with chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension. The essential competencies of nursing staff are discussed, including the use of validated scales (Barthel, Lawton and Brody, MMSE, Yesavage, and Gijón) and the coordination of interdisciplinary teams. Structural barriers to its systematic implementation, such as a lack of time and resources, are also analyzed, and the integration of digital technologies (mHealth, telegeriatrics, and artificial intelligence) is proposed as the driver of change for geriatric practice on the 2026 horizon. The study concludes that nursing leadership in comprehensive assessment is decisive in promoting healthy aging, maximizing autonomy, and ensuring the sustainability of contemporary health systems.

doi.org/10.26820/recimundo/10.(1).enero.2026.391-401 Open access Interventions