UK Pensioners Hospitalised for Cocaine Surge to 723 in 2023-24

Recent NHS data reveals a significant increase in cocaine-related hospital admissions among pensioners in the UK, with 723 over-65s admitted between March 2023 and March 2024, including individuals in their 90s. This represents a 33% rise compared to the previous year and is over four times higher than figures from 2014-15. While pensioners account for just 3% of the 23,644 people treated for cocaine, many are using the drug to cope with loneliness, bereavement, or mental health challenges, or to self-medicate ailments not addressed by the NHS. Experts warn that cocaine use is particularly dangerous for older adults due to age-related health conditions and interactions with prescribed medications. The rise in cocaine use among the elderly has also led to treatment for long-term addiction, withdrawal symptoms, depression, and psychosis. The growing trend highlights broader concerns about drug misuse in aging populations and its potentially severe health consequences.