Decision-making capacity evaluation in older cancer patients: A call to action.

OBJECTIVES

Patients' involvement in the decision-making process is essential for shared decision-making and optimal patient-centered care. However, when there are concerns about a patient's cognition and judgmen, the complexity of providing patient-centered care increases. It is often necessary to evaluate patients' decision-making capacity (DMC) to determine whether they are able to make a particular decision or whether to rely on their previously expressed wishes or the patient's caregivers.

METHODS

In this article, we present a case of an older adult with colon cancer who presented to the emergency room.

RESULTS

We describe how multidisciplinary care can enhance the evaluation of DMC and improve quality of care for older patients with advanced cancer.

SIGNIFICANCE OF

RESULTS

Multidisciplinary discussions and good communication skills are essential for navigating these complex situations, reducing potential harm and maximizimizing quality of life.