1. Partialstage testing Diagnosis and Treatment
One-third of all cancers diagnosed are found in elderly patients age 75 or older. Still, research shows that elderly patients are less likely to be fully diagnosed (they have fewer biopsies, less diagnostic and staging testing done) and less likely to have aggressive treatment. Research also suggests a trend of decreasing survival rates as age increases. This trend can be partially explained by fragility in the elderly as well as other diseases and conditions that may interfere with treatment. Some elderly patients can tolerate chemotherapy, radiation and surgery as well as their younger counterparts.
2. Advocate For Your Health
It's important to have a voice in treatment and management of the disease. Read all you can about the specific type of cancer you or your loved one are dealing with. Get second opinions and be insistent in advocating for new options, aggressive treatments and pain control. Never go to the doctor alone. Remember to record what information was exchanged at each doctor's visit and keep an up-to-date list of medications and test results.
3. Cancer Doesn't Need to Equal Pain
Elderly patients and their families often equate aging and disease with pain. While cancer can certainly be the root of significant discomfort and pain, every effort should be made to ease that pain. Uncontrolled pain should not be accepted as a condition of either aging or disease. Every individual has the right to pain control. Ask your health care providers for options and provide them with accurate reports on the success of different treatment methods. Many people are wary of narcotic therapy, one of medicine's greatest weapons in fighting pain, but it's important to note that addiction to narcotics is rare when they are used in treatment of pain.
4. Find Your Spirit
Whether you are religious by tradition, nature or not at all, finding your spirit through the journey of cancer back to health can become an integral part of healing. It may help to create a space inside your home--a shelf, a room or a corner--that can celebrate the parts of life that mean the most to you, along with what you find inspiring and moving regarding the spiritual realm. Many people have used their own space to create healing rituals and positive energy, restore energy and find safety from the anxiety and depression that often accompany cancer.
5. Living With Cancer, Not Dying
Just because a cancer patient is elderly does not mean he has been handed a terminal diagnosis. Many elderly individuals who have been diagnosed with cancer go on to live out their golden years in peace and comfort. Different cancers come with varying degrees of severity and unknown outcomes, but a diagnosis does not have to be terminal. Learn what you can, have an advocate, nourish your body and soul and do not settle for subpar treatment.
