Integrated care for frail older people 2012: a clinical overview

The purpose of this paper is to elaborate a clinician's perspective on the shared integrated care of older people with dementia and/or frailty. In addition, it aims to describe the significance and value of dignity, kindness and compassion in care.

This is a general review of current policy, research and good practice, amplified from a clinical perspective.

The key components of effective integrated care are shared knowledge, understanding, training and support. Equally important are shared objectives, leadership, and governance.

The clinical perspective offered in the paper aims to link advances in medicine with advances in care. This confirms that comprehensive geriatric assessment, as well as working with individuals and their families, must underpin all integrated, humane and effective care for older vulnerable people.