Grant: Travel Awards - Institute Community Support

Background: Self-management (SM) is an important component in chemotherapy treatment. Cancer is predominantly a disease of older adults, who are more vulnerable than younger adults to chemotherapy-related adverse effects. Optimal SM for these adverse effects can prevent chemotherapy treatment interruptions and reduce hospitalization. Yet, little is known about SM strategies/behaviours for chemotherapy-related adverse effects in older cancer patients. Aims: The primary aim of the current study is to explore the level and perceived effectiveness of SM utilization for chemotherapy-related adverse effects among older adults. Furthermore, to explore the impact of factors of interest such as comorbidity, cognitive function, sensory impairment, performance status, functional status, mobility, self-efficacy, health literacy, anxiety, and depression on SM performance. This study also will explore the association between the frequency of SM utilization and health-related quality of life. The secondary purpose of this study is to explore the complexity of SM and the potential barriers related to competing demands between symptoms and care requirements associated with chemotherapy treatment and existing co morbidities. In addition, potential facilitators, which may increase the performance of SM will be examined. Methods: This is a mixed-method design, which utilizes a quantitative baseline self-administered survey combined with information abstracted from medical chart and qualitative interview with open-ended questions. Results: The results from the current study will provide insight about SM among older adults with cancer who are actively receiving chemotherapy. In addition, it will help to inform SM interventions development in the context of chemotherapy and advanced age.