Older Adults With Gastrointestinal Cancer Program

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Gastrointestinal Cancer Treatment for Patients Over 65

Adults over the age of 65 who have gastrointestinal (GI) cancer require personalized care that addresses not only their cancer diagnosis but also their overall health. Our program is dedicated to meeting these unique needs, ensuring that each patient receives comprehensive and compassionate treatment.

What Is Gastrointestinal Cancer?

Gastrointestinal cancer includes cancers that affect the digestive system. This includes the pancreas, liver, bile duct, esophagus, colon, rectum, anus, and stomach. Research has shown that more than two-thirds of GI cancer cases happen in people over 65, and older adults often need more hospital care. We aim to improve support for older adults facing these types of cancer.

Specialized Care Services for Older Adults

We use a team approach to offer the best care. Your multidisciplinary team will include cancer specialists such as a medical oncologist, a surgeon, and a radiation oncologist. Additionally, you’ll meet with a geriatrician and a pharmacist to ensure holistic care. We will assess your health, medications, and other medical conditions to tailor the best treatment plan for you. Throughout your care, we’ll monitor your energy, strength, and physical abilities to minimize side effects and keep you strong.

Beyond cancer treatment, we offer support to enhance your quality of life. This includes nutritional guidance, social work services, financial assistance, and integrative therapies. If needed, we can also refer you to physical or occupational therapy.

Caring for Older Adults with Cancer – A Geriatrician's Role

Tammy Hshieh, MD, MPH, describes the role she plays as a geriatrician caring for older patients at Dana-Farber. Dr. Hshieh co-manages patients' care with Dana-Farber’s oncologists, and helps identify and manage medical, cognitive or social issues while the patient goes through cancer treatment.

Access to Clinical Trials for GI Cancer

Clinical trials study the effectiveness of new cancer treatments. Learn more about current clinical trials and research studies on gastrointestinal cancers for those over 65.

Find a clinical trial for gastrointestinal cancer

Read about our groundbreaking research

Events for Older Adults With Gastrointestinal Cancer

In addition to offering top-notch care, we work to educate doctors, patients, and caregivers about the special challenges facing older adults who have gastrointestinal cancer. Twice a year, we host a virtual educational series called "Resilience in Aging with Cancer." Some sessions are tailored for healthcare providers while others are geared towards patients.

We kicked off our virtual webinar series with the topic, "Aging in Place: Resources to Support Living with Cancer," presented by experienced social worker in Supportive Oncology, Larisa Patacchiola, MSW, LICSW.

Check back for more information about our upcoming events, which will be posted here when available.

"Senior Moment": What Happens With Memory as We Age

Thursday, May 29, 2025, from 12 - 1 p.m.

The Older Adults with Gastrointestinal Cancer Program is hosting "Senior Moment": What Happens With Memory as We Age, the second webinar in its educational series on aging.

The webinar is intended for older adult patients (age 65+) and their care partners. It will be led by Tammy Hshieh, MD, MPH, an experienced geriatrician with specialized training in caring for the complex needs of older adult patients with cancer at Dana-Farber.

Registration is required to attend this free event.

Resilience in Aging with Cancer: Aging in Place

The Older Adults with Gastrointestinal Cancer Program kicked off its Resilience in Aging with Cancer virtual webinar series with the topic "Aging in Place: Resources to Support Living with Cancer," presented by experienced social worker in Supportive Oncology, Larisa Patacchiola, MSW, LICSW. This webinar is intended for older adult patients (age 65+) and their care partners.

More Information on Older Adult Gastrointestinal Cancer Research and Care