During counseling, it may be useful to take a psychosocial history that reviews past milestones, including work, marriage, birth of children and other accomplishments. Make services accessible. If the older person with cancer is homebound, counseling should be made available over the telephone or through home visits and volunteer programs. In addition, community resources such as the local visiting nurse service and senior center can be used to supplement medical and psychosocial care. Become knowledgeable about community resources.
Older people feel strongly about maintaining their independence and control.
Teach health care negotiating skills. Working with the elderly may include advocating for entitlements, promoting active participation in their care and teaching them the skills necessary to navigate the health care system. Some older people may also need help in communicating with their physicians. Work with the extended family. Counseling the older person with cancer often includes mediating between the patient and adult children.