Chemotherapy in the elderly: are their needs being met?

Adherence and oral agents with older patients

OBJECTIVE

Oral antineoplastic agents offer multiple advantages in cancer therapies. Thus, understanding issues of adherence to these agents for older adults becomes critical to successful comprehensive care of the older cancer patient.

DATA SOURCES

This analysis of adherence to oral agents among older cancer patients draws on interdisciplinary geriatric and oncologic research reports and clinical reviews.

CONCLUSION

Older adults are at increased risk for poor adherence to oral agents. Barriers to adherence are diverse. Problems emerge from age-related physical changes, comorbid conditions, polypharmacy, and drug interactions. Psychosocial barriers include limited insurance coverage and transportation problems to social isolation and inadequate social support.

IMPLICATION FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Nurses should lead interdisciplinary, individualized plans of care to mitigate barriers and support adherence to cancer therapy.