New Run Commences 13 May 2024

Cancer and the Older Person: Improving Care, Outcomes and Experience, Massive Open Online Course (MOOC)

This course will enhance your understanding of cancer care for geriatric patients and help you to build confidence and knowledge to care for older people who have been diagnosed with or are undergoing treatment for cancer.

Explore the specific needs of older patients

One in two people will develop cancer in their lifetime, and often this diagnosis comes later in life.On this course, you’ll develop a toolkit of resources around caring for older patients throughout their diagnosis, treatment and recovery or end of life.

Learn how to talk about cancer with older patients and their families

Led by professionals at the University of Melbourne, you’ll learn communication methods and modes of questioning that will help you considerately encourage others to respect and heed expert health advice. You might be worried you’ll say the wrong thing, but you’ll learn how to make an action plan for talking about cancer and how to help people take action in their lives to live with and help to treat cancer. As well as helping you learn and share the facts around geriatric oncology, this course will help you support someone who is diagnosed with cancer later in life.

Learn with one of the world’s most highly regarded medical faculties

The University of Melbourne is ranked among the 20 best universities in the world for Healthcare and Medicine [1]. This course draws on the world leading knowledge of the University and VCCC Alliance members. 

What topics will you cover?

• Demographics and prevalence

• Communication and coordination of care

• Diagnosis and treatment

• Psychosocial and community-based support

• Elder abuse

• Vulnerable groups

• Advanced care planning

Aim: Gain an introduction to modern strategies of geriatric oncology and support. 

Learning Objectives

• Describe factors that would differentiate a fit older person from a frail person as a result of cancer and its treatment

• Explain how age associated changes might impact on a person’s ability to engage in treatment decision making and self-care

• Explain the importance of effective communication and diversity of the population of an older person with cancer

• Explore strategies to effectively identify values and wishes that influence the care an older person may receive

• Explain the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in caring for an older person affected by cancer

Audience: Carers, doctors and nurses within this field, or family members of those dealing with a cancer diagnosis in old age.

Level: Novice - Intermediate

Course date: Starts 13th May 2023

Following the 13th May 2024 intake, there will be another one starting 2nd September 2024.