On Thursday, November 19th, the UNA Healthy Aging Series continued with a special Healthy Aging Talk at the Wesbrook Community Centre presented by ACCESS Lab member Ailsa Sirois. Ailsa engaged with the audience with her expertise in aging, wellbeing, and patient-centered approaches, offering an accessible, engaging perspective on what supports healthy aging across communities.
To learn more about her presentation, please see below:
We talked to 20 older adults living with and beyond cancer to learn about their experiences and thoughts on “healthy aging”. Why?
Over half of people diagnosed with cancer in Canada are 65 years and older.
Older adults living with and beyond cancer face challenges related to health, aging, and cancer. This group includes cancer survivors.
Healthy aging is a process that helps maintain good function and wellbeing as people get older
What did they tell us?
ADAPTING: Participants said they changed their attitudes or behaviours to manage cancer as they aged. This helped them manage their health, function, and quality of life.
ACCEPTING AND REJECTING: Participants talked about accepting changes that come with cancer and aging. They also talked about ‘pushing back’ against limitations and stereotypes about getting older.
PATIENT AUTONOMY: Being involved in decisions about cancer treatment and care was important for healthy aging. For many, quality of life was most important. Participants had to advocate to make sure their personal goals were met during cancer care and treatment.
Conclusion: Older adults living with and beyond cancer need access to healthcare and support services that consider their personal needs and goals for healthy aging.
Interested in learning more about this study? Read the study below!
