An autonomy supportive model of geriatric team function.

Interdisciplinary teams play a critical role in the delivery of geriatric health care. Health care professionals are commonly left to develop teamwork skills by chance. Medical team function differs from traditional group theory in that all members are caregivers. A non-competitive supportive atmosphere is appropriate for patient care. We propose a participatory (autonomy supportive) model fostering self-realization and positive reinforcement as an organizing philosophy. The primary group task is to maximize patient functional independence and personal goals. Leadership is task-dependent.