How is multiple myeloma different in older adults?

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow. It can affect bones, blood counts, kidneys, and calcium balance. In an older adult, the same diagnosis may interact with arthritis, heart or lung disease, reduced kidney reserve, memory problems, or several medicines. These factors can change which tests and treatments are suitable.

Clinicians may assess walking, nutrition, falls, cognition, daily activities, and support at home alongside blood and urine tests, imaging, and a marrow examination. This broader assessment helps separate symptoms caused by myeloma from problems caused by another condition or treatment.

Treatment can include combinations of medicines, supportive treatment for bone health, infection prevention, pain control, and management of anaemia or kidney problems. Doses and schedules may be adjusted when kidney function, frailty, or side effects make standard treatment harder to tolerate. A pharmacist or geriatric specialist can review medicines and fall risks. Tell the team about supplements and over-the-counter pain medicines.

Contact the care team promptly for new severe back or bone pain, weakness or numbness in the legs, reduced urine, persistent vomiting, fever, confusion, or a fall. Sudden inability to walk, loss of bladder or bowel control, severe breathlessness, or chest pain requires urgent help. Early assessment can identify spinal pressure, infection, dehydration, or another complication.

Ask how kidney function and other illnesses affect treatment, what symptoms should trigger a call, how bone protection will be monitored, and whether home support, physiotherapy, or a medication review would help.