[The "Geriatric Assessment" Study Group (AGAST): recommendations for the use of assessment procedures].

This work presents preliminary recommendations for a three-step geriatric assessment approach developed by a newly created working group consisting of members from nine geriatric departments in Germany and Switzerland. The recommendations were based on a literature review, expert consultation, and a consensus meeting. As part of this effort, instruments and guidelines for selected geriatric assessment instruments were translated and will be tested in German language. Further research is planned for refining the recommended method. Currently, these recommendations might help to stimulate the spread of geriatric assessment method in German-speaking areas and facilitate joint research projects among geriatric institutions.