This is a randomized controlled trial to assess the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a multicomponent technology-supported care delivery intervention trial in 110 older patients with hematologic malignancies [acute myeloid leukemia (AML), myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), multiple myeloma (MM), and diffuse large b-cell lymphoma (DLBCL)] receiving outpatient chemotherapy on treatment-related toxicities, patient-reported outcomes, healthcare utilization, and inflammatory and epigenetic markers.
Compared to younger adults, older adults with cancer are more likely to have age-related vulnerabilities such as functional impairment and co-existing medical conditions. They are also often on many medications. As a result, older adults are more likely to experience treatment-related toxicities. These toxicities can lead to increased healthcare utilization (e.g., hospitalization, emergency room visits), decreased quality of life and functional status, and reduced survival. In addition, a disproportionate number of older adults live in rural areas which often limit access to healthcare. Therefore, there is a need to better support older adults with hematologic malignancies during the course of their treatment to decrease treatment-related toxicities so they can continue to receive treatment. The proposed study will investigate whether digital health technologies can support older adults in various aspects of their cancer care.
Age ≥60 years Have a new diagnosis of AML, MDS, MM, and DLBCL Have a plan to receive outpatient chemotherapy for at least 4 months (patients may enroll within the first 2 weeks of chemotherapy initiation if they do not have grade 2 or higher non-hematologic adverse event) No plan to or unlikely to proceed with autologous or allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SCT) in the following 5 months (if SCT is planned after 4 cycles of chemotherapy in the case of MDS or myeloma, patients are allowed to enroll) English speaking Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) performance status of 0-3 No medical contraindications for exercise per oncologist Able to walk 4 meters as part of Short Physical Performance Battery measured walk (with or without the assistive device) Able to provide informed consent