Older stroke patients victims of ‘NHS ageism’
Ageism in the NHS means older stroke victims are not receiving the same level of care as younger patients, according to a new study.
Elderly patients were less likely to be given important brain scans and lifestyle advice following stroke than their younger counterparts, the research published in the Postgraduate Medical Journal found.
One in 20 over-75s received an MRI scan to diagnose the type of stroke suffered, compared with one in four younger patients.
Newly-joined charities Help the Aged and Age Concern said this was another example of "shocking ageism" in the NHS.
Charity director Michelle Mitchell said: "Older people aren’t asking for special treatment, but the same access to healthcare and medicine as everyone else."
The government has pledged to improve stroke care in recent years since it emerged that the standard of care in Briton was lagging behind other European nations.
Stroke occurs when blood supply to part of the brain is cut off, which results in a lack of oxygen and nutrients and can lead to permanent brain damage.
The Insurance Helpline specialises in obtaining cover for people living with stroke.
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