Cancer care in older adults is not defined by age alone. It should be guided by the whole patient — including functional status, medical complexity, cognition, independence, and quality of life.

Two people of the same age may face the same diagnosis but have very different capacities to tolerate treatment. One may remain active and independent, while another may be navigating frailty, falls, heart disease, memory changes, or other significant medical issues. A thoughtful treatment plan must recognize that difference.

With fellowship training in geriatrics from the University of Pennsylvania, Dr. Kumar brings specialized expertise to geriatric oncology and the care of older adults with cancer, helping tailor treatment to each patient’s overall health, resilience, and goals rather than age alone.

To learn more, patients and families are invited to read Dr. Kumar’s recent NJ.com opinion article, In NJ, Age Too Often Decides Cancer Care. It Shouldn’t.