Experiences of Older Women With Cancer Receiving Hospice Care: Significance for Physical Therapy

Background and Purpose. The number of older adults with cancer is growing, increasing the need for professionals who are able to meet these patients' special needs. In palliative care settings, physical therapists strive to promote quality of life. Minimal research exists, however, to guide therapists working with patients with terminal illness. The purpose of this study was to gain knowledge that can be used by physical therapists to more effectively assess and treat older people with cancer who are receiving hospice care. Subjects and Methods. A qualitative single-case study with replication was conducted with 3 older women with cancer who are receiving hospice care. Interview data were analyzed using grounded theory techniques. Results. Four themes emerged as central to the experience of the informants: social relationships, spirituality, outlook on mortality, and meaningful physical activity. Conclusion and Discussion. In addition to maintaining physical function, physical therapists, who attend to nonphysical as well as physical aspects of care, may foster social cohesion, help maximize life's meaning, and support stabilizing strategies of older women with cancer who receive hospice care.