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The elderly patient with cancer: a holistic view
Antonio Viganò1, Jose A Morais2
1Supportive and Palliative Care Service, McGill University Health Centre, Department of Oncology, McGill University, and McGill Nutrition and Performance Laboratory, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.)
|March 16, 2015
Summary
Elderly cancer patients (ECPs) are diverse, with frailty impacting their quality of life and treatment tolerance. Comprehensive care, including functional assessments and social support, is crucial for successful outcomes in this vulnerable population.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Oncology
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Elderly cancer patients (ECPs) represent a heterogeneous group with varying degrees of functional status.
- Aging leads to decreased physiologic reserves, increasing vulnerability to stressors and contributing to frailty.
- Frailty significantly impacts daily living, exacerbates comorbidities, and affects treatment tolerance and rehabilitation in ECPs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the heterogeneity within the elderly cancer patient population.
- To emphasize the role of frailty and cachexia as critical factors in ECP care.
- To propose a comprehensive approach for managing ECPs.
Main Methods:
- Assessment of functional status through gait speed, handgrip strength, and cognitive tests.
- Laboratory tests to identify inflammatory states and hormonal deficiencies.
- Evaluation of social support networks and home care services.
Main Results:
- Frailty is a continuum influenced by aging and impacting daily activities and comorbidities.
- Cachexia is a significant comorbidity affecting quality of life and treatment outcomes.
- Functional and laboratory assessments can guide interventions and monitor progress.
Conclusions:
- A comprehensive care approach is essential for ECPs.
- This approach should integrate functional assessments, management of comorbidities like cachexia, and robust social and home care support.
- Such a strategy can improve treatment tolerance, rehabilitation, and overall outcomes for elderly cancer patients.
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