Development and Evaluation of a Multimodal Supportive Intervention for Promoting Physical Function in Older Patients...

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Oncology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Cancer Survivorship

Background:

• Older cancer patients often experience physical function decline during and after oncologic therapy.
• Maintaining physical function is crucial for quality of life in this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and pilot test an individually tailored, unsupervised physical activity (PA) and dietary recommendations program.
• To assess the feasibility, acceptance, adherence, and potential benefits of the program in older cancer patients.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study involving 24 older patients (≥60 years) with heterogeneous cancer diagnoses starting outpatient radiotherapy.
• Randomization into paper-based vs. video-based instruction arms for PA and nutrition recommendations.
• Intervention duration of 12 weeks with assessments at baseline, 12 weeks, and 4-week follow-up.

Main Results:

• The program was feasible and well-accepted by the majority of participants.
• Both paper-based and video-based instruction modes were equally appreciated.
• Physical function showed a slight decline at group level (not clinically relevant) but the intervention demonstrated potential for maintenance.

Conclusions:

• The individually tailored unsupervised PA and nutrition program is feasible and acceptable for older cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.
• The intervention shows potential benefit in maintaining physical function during treatment.
• Further testing in a larger sample is warranted.