- A cancer diagnosis is tricky at any stage of life but the older adults will face many challenges requires a special attention and care
- Older adults with cancer may have additional medical conditions complicating their cancer treatment.
- They may also have unique caregiving needs or even be a caregiver to another family member.
- Lastly, reliable transportation to treatment and access to regular nutritional meals can be common barriers to optimal cancer care
Compressive assessment is taken from the older patients by a team of nurses, advanced practice clinicians and physicians to discuss and collect information includes
- Quality of life, management of symptoms and present techniques
- Caregiver needs and social support structure
- Preferences for care and what matters most to you
- Other health conditions that can affect treatment of cancer
- Current diet and nutrition needs
- Present status of physical activity, ability and stability
- Home care situation and resources needed
- Medications that could affect cancer treatments
- Mental and cognitive health
Patients along their support network (i.e., spouse, family, friends, etc.) will benefit from a consultation with an oncology social worker
They can manage the emotional, social, and practical needs of older adults with cancer during treatment.
An oncology dietitian may help and deal with nutritional issues and can provide the nutritional ideas or charts for a better diet
The resources listed below can help older adults with cancer and their caregivers.
- Aging and Cancer by Cancer.net
- Cancer and The Elderly by National Cancer Institute
- Eldercare Services Locator, will help on aging connecting services for older adults and their families. This resource is maintained by the public service of the U.S. Administration
- Trends of cancer care in future ahead (AARP)
- Meals on Wheels by ACC
- Sacramento Area Community Resources for Older Adults
- Sacramento County Senior Resource Directory by CancerCare
Please login or Register to submit your answer
