Enhancing Mobility and Well-Being in Older Adults with Cancer

Objective: To analyze mobility challenges in older adult with cancer.

Methods: Data from previous literature was extracted and analyzed pertaining to the topic of interest.

Results: Mobility issues for the older adult with cancer are multi-factorial and are impacted by age-related changes, comorbidities, cancer itself, and cancer treatment.

Conclusions: Proven benefits have been suggested with mobility assessments, exercise and dietary interventions, and cancer rehabilitation programs however further research is needed to define integration and utilization of programs, facilitation of cancer survivors returning to work, inclusion of socially disadvantaged patients, program compliance, economic aspects, and caregiver involvement to improve quality of life across the cancer continuum.

Implications for nursing practice: Oncology nurses are in a key role to impact the care of the older adult with cancer with mobility through patient assessment of mobility function, facilitation of patient referrals for supportive services and cancer rehabilitation and execution of nurse-led intervention programs.