Older adult oncology program

Older adults may face different challenges than younger patients when confronting a cancer diagnosis, which may be different from the challenges faced by younger patients. And some older adults with cancer may also be dealing with medical and social issues that make their care more complicated such as living alone, having additional medical conditions and disabilities, or living on a fixed income.

Penn Medicine recognizes that older adults with cancer require specialized care to support them and their families. However, we also recognize that they often have coping skills developed through years of living that allow them to face cancer with strength, dignity, and the ability and desire to make decisions about their own health care goals and treatment. That’s why we have developed a specialized Older Adult Oncology Program to ensure optimal outcomes for older adults and their families as they navigate their treatment process.

Patients aged 65 and older who come to Penn Medicine receive a comprehensive geriatric oncology assessment that surveys a patient’s overall health, including crucial social, medical, cultural, spiritual, financial, and emotional factors. This assessment provides a holistic view of your health and well-being, examining aspects that might otherwise be overlooked in a traditional exam, such as daily living activities, nutrition, fall risk, depression, and cognitive impairment. Assessing and understanding these factors helps our doctors tailor individualized treatment plans that address all your needs. During the assessment, our providers will engage with you and your caregivers to discuss goals, values, and end-of-life preferences, and ensure the treatment plan aligns with your wishes.

Research has shown that these assessments enhance communication between patients and providers, reduce unplanned hospital visits, and improve overall quality of life and well-being. These evaluations are recommended by both the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), further emphasizing their importance in optimizing cancer treatment for older adults.

At Penn Medicine, we are committed to understanding and addressing the unique challenges that older adults face when living with cancer. We take time to consider any other medical conditions you may have, as well as your cognitive health and functional abilities to ensure the best possible outcomes while maintaining or improving your quality of life.

Our doctors use information from the geriatric assessment to make treatment recommendations and adjustments. We have a dedicated geriatric oncology nurse navigator who maintains communication with patients and their care team, ensures they get the services they're referred to or makes additional referrals in Penn Medicine and in the community. You may also be assisted by a research nurse who helps patients get connected to clinical trials and other research opportunities.

Additionally, our geriatric oncology social worker provides emotional support for patients and their caregivers and helps with advance care planning and case management. A pharmacist does a detailed medication review for older adults on numerous medications. A registered dietician works with patients to ensure they are getting good nutrition to keep their strength throughout their treatment. A staff chaplain offers support with coping and spiritual issues. Our palliative care doctor and nurse provide expert symptom management and support.

We refer patients with cognitive impairments to geriatric specialists for further evaluation and care. We work with physical therapy to reduce falls risk and provide prehabilitation, which improves patients' ability to tolerate treatment. We also refer patients to home care, giving extra support with everyday life. Additionally, we assist with referrals to other specialists and hospice as needed.

Through shared decision-making, we ensure you and your family actively participate in determining the course of their care. Our geriatric oncologists provide ongoing support and resources, not only for your medical treatment but also for your social and emotional well-being throughout your cancer care journey.