What Factors Affect Quality of Life in Cancer Patients Over 65?

In cancer, quality of life is defined as the patient’s perception of physical, psychological and social well-being. Quality of life is one of the key issues whose importance during cancer treatment is increasingly recognized. New research provides information about factors affecting health-related quality of life in older people with cancer. The findings support the importance of addressing persistent symptoms, assessing and managing coexisting diseases, increasing physical activity and tackling financial difficulties.

- QUALITY OF LIFE in Cancer Patients (Detailed)

Understanding the important factors that help improve and maintain quality of life during cancer treatment may help identify people at risk of health problems. In 2016, in the United States alone, 15 million people were living with cancer; 62 percent were aged 65 or older. As average/expected life expectancy increases, the incidence of cancer at older ages and the number of people continuing to live healthily after cancer are expected to grow.

- Related topic: Why does cancer mostly occur in old age? Approaches to treatment at older ages

To investigate this issue, the University of Alabama surveyed adults aged 65 and older, 1457 in total. Most participants were not actively receiving cancer treatment at the time of the study, or at least one year had passed since diagnosis. The survey investigated factors that could affect quality of life in physical, psychological and social domains. The researchers found that physical and mental components of quality of life were affected by different areas. The most important problems associated with poor physical well-being included pain, fatigue and sleep disturbance, as well as other diseases patients had besides cancer. There were also social factors, such as needing help when experiencing fatigue.

- Related topic: Sleep problems affect learning - What is quality sleep, and what should you do for a good night’s sleep?

Being physically active was found to be the most important contributor to feeling physically and emotionally well in life.

The severity of symptoms such as fatigue and sleep disturbance was also among the most important factors associated with poorer mental quality of life. Other possible contributors included the need for emotional support and financial hardship. Financial difficulties also have a considerable effect on the mental domain of quality of life. Most quality-of-life studies focus on active treatment or cancer drugs. However, even the smallest contribution to quality of life after diagnosis matters, regardless of cancer type or treatment.

The study’s results may guide the care of older cancer patients. The approach to patient care should be considered as a whole, with symptom management suited to individual circumstances and the promotion of healthy lifestyles. Support should also be provided for older patients’ social connections and financial difficulties.

• You may also be interested in: Exercise itself is a form of brain exercise – just 30 minutes is enough!