Preventing Frailty in Older Adults Undergoing Cancer Chemotherapy: Development of a Harmonized Care Model, a Longitudinal Study

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 19H03938
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (B)
• Allocation Type: Single-year Grants
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 58060:Clinical nursing-related
• Research Institution: Keio University
• Principal Investigator: Yagasaki Kaori 慶應義塾大学, 看護医療学部(信濃町), 教授 (80459247)
• Co-Investigator(Kenkyū-buntansha): 浜本 康夫 慶應義塾大学, 医学部(信濃町), 准教授 (10513921) ; 小松 浩子 日本赤十字九州国際看護大学, 看護学部, 教授 (60158300)
• Project Period (FY): 2019-04-01 – 2023-03-31
• Keywords: がん薬物療法 / 高齢者 / フレイル / 食生活 / QOL / コーピング

Outline of Final Research Achievements

This study aimed to elucidate the factors affecting frailty in older patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy and to develop a preventive care model. Specifically, through qualitative research on dietary habits and a longitudinal study on the relationship between quality of life (QOL), frailty, and appetite, the study examined ways to prevent frailty in this demographic. The findings revealed that symptoms, appetite, and anxiety significantly impact the QOL of older patients with cancer. The proposed care model includes symptom palliation, counseling for anxiety about cancer progression and symptoms, and individualized support emphasizing enjoyment and pleasure through food. For older adults with cancer, food is a source of life, joy, and value. This study highlights the importance of devising strategies to minimize the negative impact of dietary changes during treatment.

Free Research Field

がん看護、緩和ケア、慢性期看護

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

がん薬物療法を受ける高齢者がフレイルを予防し、自立した生活を保つことはQOL維持、向上に貢献する。本研究が明らかにしたがん薬物療法を受ける高齢がん患者の症状緩和、病状の進行や症状による不安の緩和および食の楽しみや価値を尊重した支援は、高齢者のがん医療の質向上に貢献するといえる。食事摂取量や栄養という視点だけでなく、食の価値、喜びを再獲得できるための医療者の支援の姿勢を示したことに意義がある。