Advances in early detection, improved treatment outcomes, and demographic change have led to an increase in the number of older people who survive cancer (“cancer survivors”).
The group of elderly cancer survivors is characterized on the one hand by reduced physical reserves and on the other hand by complex overlaps between the (long-term) consequences of cancer, other somatic comorbidities, functional and psychosocial health problems, and various long-term and late effects. Specific care services for older people following acute treatment are therefore important. These services should address the various problem areas in a comprehensive and interdisciplinary manner in a manner appropriate to the age of the patient and reduce the likelihood of further long-term and late effects.

The IMPULS-A project aims to develop, implement, and evaluate a survivorship program for older patients based on better networking of regional care services. The effectiveness of this regional network project will be tested in a randomized controlled trial compared to the standard aftercare currently provided. Participants will be randomly assigned to either the survivorship program or the standard aftercare. In addition to the effect on health literacy, further effects on quality of life, utilization, personal resources, treatment satisfaction, and feasibility will be examined.

Participating patients will be asked to complete a questionnaire at the start of the study, nine months after enrollment, and 18 months after enrollment. In addition, patients in the survivorship program will be screened for existing needs at the start of the program and every six months thereafter and asked if they require support. In addition to the patients, relatives are also invited to participate in the study (if interested). Participating relatives will be asked to complete a questionnaire at the start of the study and after 18 months.

For a qualitative survey, interviews will also be conducted and recorded with individual older cancer survivors to evaluate which aspects are important to older people in terms of a worthwhile survival after cancer.

Who can participate in the study?

• Cancer patients aged 70 and older who have completed acute treatment and have a life expectancy of > 3 years (as estimated by the treating oncologist).
• Persons named by the patient as relatives who are at least 18 years of age.

If you are interested in participating or have questions about the study, please contact:

Charlotte Flock and Elena Scapinello
Heidelberg University Hospital
IMPULS-A.MED2(at)med.uni-heidelberg.de