Aging Phenotypes and Restoring Functional Deficits in Older Adults With Hematologic Malignancy

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Hematology
• Exercise Physiology

Background:

• Assessing fitness in older adults with hematologic malignancies is challenging, with limited interventions available.
• This study explores a structured exercise program and biological aging markers to evaluate functional and clinical changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To pilot the Otago Exercise Programme (OEP) in older adults undergoing cancer treatment.
• To assess the OEP's impact on geriatric assessment metrics and quality of life.
• To analyze clinical outcomes, including survival and hospital utilization, in relation to geriatric deficits.

Main Methods:

• Thirty older adults with hematologic malignancy were enrolled in a 6-month OEP intervention.
• Geriatric assessment metrics, health-related quality of life, and clinical outcomes were recorded.
• Epigenetic clocks and immunosenescence markers were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The OEP significantly improved instrumental activities of daily living, physical health scores, Karnofsky performance status, and quality of life (PROMIS).
• Improved gait speed and balance (Short Physical Performance Battery) correlated with a 20% reduced risk of death and shorter hospital stays.
• Chronologic age did not correlate with survival or hospital utilization.

Conclusions:

• The Otago Exercise Programme (OEP) effectively enhanced quality of life in older adults with hematologic malignancies.
• Geriatric assessment tools proved valuable in predicting survival and hospital utilization in this patient group.