Falls in Older Adults With Cancer: Evaluation by Oncology Providers.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Falls in older adults are common. Screening for falls is quick, simple, and important because falls increase the risk of morbidity and mortality in older patients with cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate oncology providers' recognition of and response to falls in older patients with cancer.

Materials and methods

From a sample of older patients with cancer who completed a geriatric assessment blinded to oncology providers, we identified patients who self-reported falls within the past 6 months. Their history and physical and/or clinic notes completed by an oncology provider were reviewed for the following: documentation of falls, gait assessment, referral to geriatrics or physical and/or occupational therapy, and measurement of 25-hydroxy vitamin D level.

SUBMITTER: Guerard EJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5706133 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature