Navigating Cancer Treatment as an Older Adult: Unique Considerations and Challenges

As we age, our body's vital systems face health complications. One such health complication is cancer. In 2012, around 6.7 million new cancer cases among the elderly were diagnosed. This number was around 47.5% of all the cancer cases diagnosed that year.

Moreover, according to a new report (2018), around 2.7 million new cancer cases (excluding nonmelanoma skin cancers) were recorded in adults aged 80 or older. These cases contributed to 13% of all cancer cases. Cancer cases are projected to be 6.9 million (in adults over 80) in 2050. These facts clearly show the potential risk of developing cancer in old age. Though it can be treated with the right cancer treatment option, there are many things that one should keep in mind as an older person. Let's discuss all the challenges and considerations in the upcoming segments.

Challenges in cancer treatment for older adults

Psychological challenges

Cancer triggers physical as well as mental health. When a patient builds negative thoughts in their mind, the effectiveness of treatment suffers. Positive thoughts improve the quality of life and give the mental support needed to undergo painful treatment. 5% of people in the elderly age group still see cancer as God's punishment for their sins. Moreover, only 28% of older people know they are at high risk of developing cancer. Hence, it becomes difficult to persuade older adults to consult a doctor periodically to ensure timely cancer detection.

Awareness and approach toward prevention

People believe a healthy lifestyle can help prevent various health issues, including cancer. But due to their lack of knowledge, older adults can't take the right steps toward prevention. Furthermore, many older adults are stubborn and can't understand the importance of lifestyle changes and periodic medical checkups. One should avoid alcohol, tobacco, obesity, an unhealthy diet, excessive sunbathing, etc. These are connected with the potential risk of cancer development. Hence, there is a need to spread awareness for early diagnosis and a better survival rate.

Cancer treatments and their impact on life

Multiple cancer treatment options exist, each with risk factors and challenges for older adults. These are:

Surgery

In old age, the functionality of our body systems is depreciated. Hence, surgery can be a risky option for older adults. It can affect the following organs.

• Heart: Many elderly patients suffer from heart problems or improper heartbeats (heart arrhythmia). Surgery can lead to a sudden change in blood pressure. An elderly heart can't easily handle such a condition. Thus, it can worsen existing heart problems and increase health complications.
• Kidney: During cancer surgery, one may need to consume a lot of drugs and fluids. The performance of the kidneys decreases with age. In such a situation, surgery can increase the burden on the kidneys.
• Lungs: Your lungs may get weaker with time. Hence, it can increase the risk of developing pneumonia after surgery.

Chemotherapy and target therapy

Chemotherapy affects the entire body, and older cancer patients will likely experience its side effects like:

• Low blood count (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets) increases the risk of anaemia, infection, etc.
• Digestive disorders, including diarrhoea, nausea, etc., lead to further complications like dehydration.
• Negative impact on the nervous system, leading to memory loss, nerve damage, etc.

Radiation therapy

The side effects of radiation therapy may differ according to the case. Therefore, going for less intense radiation therapy in old age is recommended.

Psychological difficulties while coping up

Cancer treatment can lead to various psychological side effects like anxiety and depression. The intensity of such side effects increases in old age as they don't have enough desire to live and often feel lonely.

Financial burden

Usually, older adults don't have an active income source. Therefore, they are on a limited budget. Cancer treatment can become a burden for them. This situation can further devastate them. Moreover, cancer is also seen as a threat to global economies. Increasing cancer cases can hamper a country's growth and the prosperity of its citizens.

Things to consider while navigating cancer treatment as an elderly

Understand the importance of Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (CGA)

Before undergoing any treatment, it is crucial to understand the health condition thoroughly. Especially for older adults, a multidimensional geriatric assessment like the CGA becomes essential. It helps understand the body's functionalities, impairments, emotional health, physical performance, nutritional needs, etc. It has helped in uncovering crucial geriatric issues that can help in decision-making. Moreover, it has been found that CGA can help reduce cancer treatment side effects.

Focus on nutrition and physical activity.

Focusing on your lifestyle to recover faster or prevent cancer becomes vital. Some tips you should follow during cancer treatment are listed below.

• Avoid junk and processed foods. Switch to fruits and vegetables. At least consume 2.5 servings a day.
• Maintain the right body weight (BMI).
• Avoid alcohol and tobacco consumption.
• Avoid consuming processed or red meat.
• Exercise every day.
• Choose whole grain products over refined ones

Cancer treatment selection

Navigation of the treatment is important in cancer patients. As an older adult cancer patient, you must consider your present condition and treatment goals for selection.

Present condition

You can ask questions like:

• Cancer type, severity and the affected area.
• Existing health conditions like thyroid, diabetes, etc. and how these can affect treatment.
• How does each treatment option affect your health and quality of life?

Treatment goals

With age, our goals change. Young patients may overcome cancer as they have aspirations for life. It is not the case with older adults. If you don't have future goals for life, then an aggressive treatment plan is not for you. Hence, it may lead to a delay in cancer treatment.

Your family's opinion

Being elderly, you may want to choose a treatment option that can help you live longer with fewer cancer symptoms. But your family may disagree with this decision. It is better to discuss everything with them. It will help you opt for the right treatment plan.

Volunteer for clinical trials.

You can become part of a greater cause by volunteering for clinical trials. As most cancer patients are older adults, your contribution can be greatly helpful. The doctor will further research ways to improve effectiveness by trying new drugs and treatment approaches. You can ask your doctor about the difference between this approach and standard treatment options.

Explore advanced cancer care options.

Advanced cancer is a terminal illness. However, it can't be cured but can be treated to improve the quality of life. It includes:

• Standard treatment options like radiation therapy.
• Clinical trials to test new drugs
• Palliative care to optimise quality of life
• Hospice care helps families cope with the death of cancer patients.

Resolve Your Queries by Consulting Your Oncologist.

Don't forget to ask questions related to these topics:

• Chances of cure and recovery
• Associated complications and risks
• Duration of the treatment
• Impact on daily life
• Overall treatment expenses
• Availability of support services for family
• Changes required in lifestyle

Conclusion

The risk of cancer is higher in older people. Hence, navigation towards the right treatment option becomes more important in older patients. One can do the same, only considering all the challenges and considerations before treatment selection. Moreover, stay positive and discuss everything with your doctor to elevate the efficacy of the treatment.

If your wish to get cancer treatment for your elderly loved one in India, Adotrip, a leading medical service provider in India, can help get doctor consultations, ambulance services, medical visa assistance, flight bookings, stay arrangements and more. We will help you at every step of your trip to the country for the best medical services!