Conference poster
Perceptions on diet and exercise behaviour of older adults with haematological cancer
Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) Annual Scientific Meeting, 49th (Brisbane, Australia, 02-Nov-2022–04-Nov-2022)
2022
Abstract
Older adults are disproportionally impacted by cancer worldwide and it is predicted that over 60% of cancer cases globally will be in those over 65 years of age. Given the complex needs of older cancer survivors it is imperative to support older adults to manage their health alongside their caregivers and healthcare providers. Healthy lifestyle behaviour (i.e., diet and exercise) is associated with improved health outcomes and health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in cancer survivors. Adherence to diet and exercise guidelines, however, remains low and there is a need for tailored self-management interventions for older cancer survivors.
Aim. To explore the perceptions of older hematological cancer survivors (HCS) on the role of diet and exercise in navigating daily tasks.
Methods. A qualitative descriptive research method was used. HCS were recruited via Queensland Cancer Registry and flyers. Eligible participants completed an online survey gathering demographic information including HRQOL exercise frequency, malnutrition and frailty risk using validated tools. A semi-structured telephone interview explored perceptions and factors affecting diet and exercise behavior. Data was analysed using thematic analysis.
Results. Nine participants (67±2 yrs., 6 men) completed all measurements. Time since diagnosis was 12(10.5;20) months, all were on antineoplastic treatment, four were sufficiently active, three at risk of malnutrition, and five were identified at risk of frailty. Three main themes emerged, 1) belief in the importance of diet and exercise for physical and mental wellbeing, 2) the ability to overcome barriers to diet and exercise guidelines, and 3) diet and exercise empowers and gives hope. Identified enablers included knowledge, existing habits, problem solving skills, social support, self-belief, and instruction.
Conclusions. Health promotion education and appropriate behavior change support may enhance adherence to diet and exercise guidelines in this group of older HCS.
Details
- Title
- Perceptions on diet and exercise behaviour of older adults with haematological cancer
- Authors
- Hattie H Wright (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - LegacyAlana Colton (Author)Suzanne Broadbent (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - LegacyKarina Rune (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - LegacyCindy Davis (Author) - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, School of Law and Society
- Conference details
- Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) Annual Scientific Meeting, 49th (Brisbane, Australia, 02-Nov-2022–04-Nov-2022)
- Date published
- 2022
- Organisation Unit
- School of Health and Behavioural Sciences - Legacy; School of Health - Nutrition & Dietetics; School of Health - Psychology; School of Health - Sports & Exercise Science; School of Law and Society; Cancer Research Cluster
- Language
- English
- Record Identifier
- 99681498102621
- Output Type
- Conference poster
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