Quality of life for older patients with metastatic cancer in Brazil: A telehealth-based geriatric assessment and supportive care intervention (GAIN-S).

Abstract

1514 Background: Older adults with cancer often present unique geriatric and supportive care needs. We sought to evaluate the impact of a telehealth-based multimodal geriatric assessment (GA)-guided supportive care interventions (GAIN-S) program among older patients with metastatic cancer in a Brazilian cancer center. Methods: This is a randomized trial. Patients aged 65+ years with metastatic cancer, undergoing treatment, regardless of ECOG status, were enrolled. Following the baseline assessment, patients were randomized 1:1 to receive usual care or GAIN-S. The GAIN-S intervention provided remote, telehealth-based consultations with a nutritionist, psychologist, psychiatrist, and certified fitness trainer. At baseline and 3-months, patients were assessed for emotional symptoms (Geriatric Depression Scale), functional status (Instrumental Activities of Daily Living), coping (BriefCope), and quality of life (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General). Independent t-tests and linear mixed model were used. Results: Out of 86 approached patients, 80 were enrolled (40 per arm), with 3 deceased during treatment (usual care: 2, GAIN-S: 1). Most patients were female (56%), with a median age of 73 years (range, 65-68). Most common cancers were genitourinary (28%) and breast (23%). At baseline, there were no differences in the outcome measures between arms. However, from baseline to 3-months, patients assigned to GAIN-S had improvements in emotional symptoms, functional status, and quality of life compared to usual care (Table). Additionally, those assigned to GAIN-S reported increased utilization of active coping, acceptance, and positive reframing at 3-months. Conclusions: GAIN-S demonstrated significant improvements in emotional well-being, functional status, and quality of life among older patients with metastatic cancer. These findings underscore the potential of such telehealth-driven approaches to enhance the supportive care experience in diverse healthcare settings. [Table: see text]