Geriatric Oncology: Tailoring Treatments for Older Adults

Geriatric oncology focuses on tailoring cancer treatment strategies to meet the specific needs of older adults, who often have distinct physiological responses to therapy. Older patients may experience unique side effects due to frailty, comorbidities, and polypharmacy. Therefore, treatments should be personalized to balance effectiveness with minimizing adverse effects. The use of geriatric assessments to evaluate physical, cognitive, and psychosocial factors is critical in guiding treatment decisions. A multidisciplinary approach, involving oncologists, geriatricians, and other specialists, ensures that therapies are appropriate, thus improving the quality of life and survival for elderly cancer patients.