According to Age UK, over one-third of UK A&E hospital admissions are for people aged over 75. This means that many of us will find ourselves supporting elderly relatives in hospital. But navigating the private healthcare system and ensuring your loved one is supported can be daunting. Here’s a guide to help you provide effective support for your relative during their hospital stay.

Communicate

Ask questions. Seek clarification on why your relative has been admitted to hospital and their medical condition. Provide a list of their medications and allergies and highlight any concerns to medical staff. Ask for details of their treatment plan, including medication and side effects; any risks and benefits of proposed procedures; and their expected length of stay and criteria for discharge. If anything is unclear or you disagree with a course of action, seek an explanation.

Mistakes in private hospitals are rare, but when they occur, you could make hospital negligence claims. The NHS defines negligence as a situation where “the care provided falls below the standard that a patient could reasonably expect” as outlined by the Bolam test. This also relates to private healthcare. If you’re concerned about your relative’s care, raise them with the hospital’s Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS).

Advocate

Your relative may be feeling vulnerable and disoriented, so they might struggle to communicate effectively. You need to be their advocate. Try to attend meetings and appointments with your relative. Keep a record of what’s discussed, medications prescribed and discharge plans. Ask for explanations if you don’t understand anything. If you have worries about your relative’s well-being, be assertive and speak up but always stay respectful.

Practical support

A hospital stay can be disorienting particularly for the elderly. Help them settle by bringing in home comforts such as photos, a blanket or dressing gown. Help them with meals and personal hygiene. Even just reading a book together can make a difference. Balance visits from friends and family with your relative’s need for rest and privacy.

Look after yourself too

Supporting a loved one in hospital can be draining, so take care of yourself. Lean on others for support by talking to friends and family members or support groups for carers. And look after your health as well! Eat healthily at set mealtimes, exercise and get your eight hours of sleep preferably at the same time each night.