According to a charity, individuals are enduring extended waits in crowded A&E departments, with some waiting for up to a week before receiving treatment.
A recent report by Age UK reveals a significant surge in elderly patients waiting between one to three days in A&E, showing a 75-fold increase. The charity emphasizes that the most vulnerable elderly population is disproportionately affected by the ongoing A&E crisis, often left unattended in hospital waiting areas.
Data obtained through Freedom of Information laws discloses that during 2024/25, over 102,000 instances occurred where individuals over 65 waited in A&E for 24 to 72 hours after being deemed requiring admission. Of these, more than half, around 54,000 cases, involved individuals aged 80 and above. This is a stark contrast to 2018/19, where individuals over 65 waited between one to three days in A&E just 1,346 times.
NHS England has suggested that extended waits exceeding three days are likely due to data accuracy issues. However, Age UK disputes this claim, citing instances where individuals have waited even longer, up to a week in some cases.
Caroline Abrahams, Director of Age UK, expressed dismay over the situation, stating that it is alarming that over 100,000 individuals aged over 65 had to endure prolonged waits for a hospital bed, with a majority being over 80. She highlighted the distressing conditions faced by these individuals, waiting for days in discomfort and fear, often left unattended in inadequate facilities.
The charity’s report uncovered harrowing accounts from elderly patients, describing instances of neglect and loss of dignity while waiting in A&E. Some patients reported being left unattended, lying on the floor, and lacking basic care such as access to washing facilities or even a glass of water.
Testimonials from patients like David, Michael, and Jennifer shed light on the dire conditions endured in A&E, with stories of prolonged waits, lack of basic amenities, and feelings of fear and abandonment.
Statistics from the NHS indicate that patients spending more than 12 hours in A&E face higher mortality rates within 30 days compared to those seen promptly within two hours.
Age UK highlights that elderly patients, often with complex health needs, are more likely to face extended waits in A&E due to the time required for assessments and treatment planning.
Ms. Abrahams expressed concern over the situation, calling for urgent action to address the crisis in A&E services, emphasizing the need for improved conditions for both patients and healthcare staff.
In response, a Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson acknowledged the distressing stories shared, highlighting ongoing efforts to improve NHS services, reduce waiting times, and enhance emergency care facilities.
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