Cancer and treatment-related cognitive changes, such as thinking or remembering, hinder resumption of normal routine and roles and worsen quality of life. Older adults undergoing hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) are at high-risk for cognitive impairment. Age is a risk factor for Alzheimer's Dementia (AD) and the hematological malignancies leading to HCT. There are shared mechanisms and interactions between AD and cancer-related cognitive decline (CRCD). Physical activity improves cognitive function in older adults and survivors of other cancers. This study hypothesizes that increasing physical activity can also improve cognitive function in this vulnerable population.
The study has two goals. The first is to adapt and test an evidence-based physical activity intervention, The Community Health Activities Model Program for Seniors II (CHAMPS II), in the HCT setting for adults 55 years and older. This will be done using semi-structured interview of up to 10 patients who have experienced the HCT process within the last 3 to 6 months with HCT care-team partners.
The second goal will explore the prevalence and impact of AD-neuropathology and inflammation on cancer-related cognitive decline (CRCD) in older adults undergoing HCT.
age 60 years and older
have a diagnosis of hematological malignancy
have received autologous or allogeneic HCT within the prior 3-6 months
able to speak and read English
there are no exclusion criteria
age 19 years and older
able to speak and read English
there are no exclusion criteria