Seminars in Oncology Nursing
Volume 22, Issue 1 , Pages 58-64, February 2006

Dispelling Myths About Palliative Care and Older Adults

  • Wendy Duggleby

      Affiliations

    • College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada
    • Corresponding Author InformationAddress correspondence to Wendy Duggleby, DSN, RN, AOCN®, College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan, 107 Wiggins Road, Saskatoon, Sask. Canada S7N 5E5
    • ,
  • Barbara M. Raudonis

      Affiliations

    • University of Texas and Arlington School of Nursing, Arlington, TX.

Objectives

To explore the myths about palliative care and older adults with cancer.

Data Sources

Research literature and review articles.

Conclusion

Several myths about older adults exist: older adults are the same as younger adults, older adults are all the same, and optimizing function and quality of life are not important outcomes. Little research has focused on older adults receiving palliative care and their families.

Implications for Nursing Practice

The Oncology Nursing Society and Geriatric Oncology Consortium published the Joint Position Statement on Cancer Care in Older Adults acknowledging the unique needs of older adults with cancer. Application of this statement may be helpful in guiding inquiry and practice in the care for older adults receiving palliative care.

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PII: S0749-2081(05)00119-1

doi:10.1016/j.soncn.2005.10.008

Seminars in Oncology Nursing
Volume 22, Issue 1 , Pages 58-64, February 2006

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