Helping hand for older patients
Older hospital patients in Sunderland are being offered a helping hand to settle back in at home after they are discharged.
The Hospital Discharge Service – delivered by Age UK Sunderland – provides additional support for patients aged over 50, for up to six weeks after they leave Sunderland Royal Hospital.
The free service aims to help patients who have limited support or live alone to maintain their independence at home – and potentially prevent unnecessary readmission to hospital.
Patients are referred to the service by their healthcare workers at Sunderland Royal Hospital, and the support includes shopping, light housework, help attending appointments, collecting prescriptions and providing companionship
The discharge service has been made possible thanks to funding from All Together Better (ATB) – an alliance of health and care partners in the city who are working together to improve how care is delivered.
Rachel Daurat, system coordinator
at South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Being discharged from hospital can be daunting and many patients will need additional support during this period of readjustment.
“This new service aims to make the transition from hospital to home easier for patients and their loved ones. “
She added: “Age UK staff work closely with our discharge team and ward staff to identify any patients that may need a bit of extra support and the service will provide hands-on practical support, with the aim of improving the patient’s quality of life, as they continue to recover in the comfort of their
own home.”
Tracy Collins, Director of Age UK Sunderland, said: “We are delighted to be working to support people to return home safely from hospital.
“Our team will be on hand to support people for up to six weeks in their home, as well as making sure that the right follow up support is in place.”
One patient who has already benefitted from the service, said: “I was struggling to move around the house and make meals.
"The Hospital Discharge worker rang the duty social worker and arranged a same day assessment to get more help from carers. I wouldn't have known who to call myself.”