Although hospitals must treat all patients with the utmost care, a new study has suggested that individuals turning 65 may see a difference in how they are handled when at a medical facility.

The study's authors examined 30 elderly patients who went to the hospital for emergency surgery. Although results showed that they had a higher mortality rate than younger patients - which was to be expected - the researchers also noticed a difference in treatment when comparing the patients' ages.

"This suggests that some hospitals put into place something unique that better addresses the needs of elderly patients," said Dr. Avery Nathens.

"Much like we report on hospital performance in other areas, we need to provide assurance that hospitals are providing high quality care to some of their highest risk patients," she added.