Older adults diagnosed with condition 'that doesn't exist'

Older adults often receive poor care within the NHS because they are diagnosed with a condition that does not exist.

Professor David Oliver, former National Clinical Director for Older People, told the Times that many healthcare professionals are failing to diagnose serious conditions such as Parkinson's, heart disease and strokes, instead diagnosing 'acopia'.

This simply means 'a failure to cope' and Professor Oliver insists many older adults do not want to "make a fuss" and so do not question their diagnosis.

"Writing 'acopia' is basically saying 'We're not going to make a proper diagnosis'. There's that subconscious decision-making," he stated.

Professor Oliver suggested a large number of older adults are seeing their independence diminished and often find themselves in nursing homes before they are strictly necessary because they are "written off" by doctors.

He said these people often remember a time before the NHS and not question a diagnosis because they are "very grateful" for the welfare state.

Find the nearest Barchester nursing home.