What does chemotherapy mean in older adults?

Age alone does not determine whether chemotherapy is suitable. The team may review heart, kidney, liver, nerve, nutrition, memory, mobility, and daily activities before treatment. They also consider other conditions and all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products. Chemotherapy may be given by vein or mouth in cycles, with checks between treatments.

Possible effects include fatigue, nausea, appetite changes, mouth soreness, hair loss, infection risk, numbness, or changes in blood counts. An older person may need extra help with hydration, walking, meals, transport, or managing medicines. A geriatric or supportive-care assessment can identify practical needs early.

Bring an up-to-date medicine list and tell the team about falls, hearing or vision problems, weight changes, memory concerns, and support at home. Arrange transport and a contact person for treatment days if needed. Keep a record of temperature, symptoms, fluid intake, and medicines taken. Ask whether doses or other medicines need adjustment, and do not start a supplement without checking first.

Contact the oncology team urgently for the fever threshold they gave you, shaking chills, new breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, fainting, uncontrolled vomiting or diarrhoea, severe weakness, bleeding, or inability to drink. Report a fall, sudden difficulty walking, or new numbness promptly. Redness, swelling, pain, or discharge at an injection site, line, or port also needs medical advice.

What benefit is this treatment intended to provide? How will my other conditions and medicines affect the plan? Which symptoms mean I should call immediately? Could treatment affect balance, memory, appetite, or independence? What support is available for transport, meals, and care at home?