Quality of life and survivorship

What it is

Quality of life and survivorship focus on living as well as possible with a glioma — addressing physical function, cognitive and emotional well-being, and practical needs throughout the journey. They matter alongside treatments aimed at the tumor and are central to comprehensive care.

Understanding Quality of life and survivorship

Beyond treating the tumor, a key goal of care is helping people live as fully and comfortably as possible. Quality of life encompasses managing symptoms (such as seizures, fatigue, and pain), supporting cognitive and physical function (through rehabilitation and strategies), addressing emotional well-being (anxiety, mood, and adjustment), and meeting practical needs (such as work, daily activities, and family roles). Survivorship care addresses the ongoing needs of people living with or beyond a glioma — including monitoring, managing long-term or late effects of the tumor and its treatment, supporting function and well-being, and coordinating care. For tumors that are chronic or have a serious prognosis, quality of life is especially central, with palliative care (focused on comfort and support, at any stage) playing an important role. The multidisciplinary team — including rehabilitation, mental health, social work, and palliative care — supports these goals. Attending to quality of life and survivorship recognizes the whole person, not just the tumor. Understanding quality of life and survivorship in gliomas clarifies the focus on living well throughout the journey.

Why it matters

Understanding quality of life and survivorship helps patients and families see that living as well as possible — physically, cognitively, emotionally, and practically — is a central goal of care, supported throughout the journey alongside tumor treatment.